Employers raising S$70,000 for domestic worker, 55, who worked in S'pore for 30 years & suffered stroke

A heart-aching post appeared on the fundraising platform Give.Asia on Nov. 1.

In it, a desperate employer in Singapore sought aid for their domestic worker of two years who'd suffered a stroke.

The 55-year-old worker, Ana, left her family in the Philippines 30 years ago so that she could eke out a living for them in Singapore.

Always put others ahead of herself

Ana was described by her employer as a hardworking individual who found joy in the little things.

She was happy just attending church every Sunday and spending time with friends on her days off.

But her modest life didn't stop her from brightening up the lives of others.

"She has been an essential part of our household, offering her quiet strength and steady support as a domestic helper to our small family," wrote her employer.

Life-changing event

Ana was struck with an unbearable and persistent headache on Oct. 21, 2024.

She was rushed to the National University Hospital (NUH), where she discovered that she had two brain aneurysms.

She ended up suffering a stroke.

A day later, she underwent surgery to relieve the pressure in her brain.

Recovery was an uphill battle, and saw her braving spasms and multiple procedures to stabilise her condition.

Physical struggles aside, Ana was further burdened by mounting medical bills.

Singapore's manpower laws require employers of migrant workers, including domestic workers, to purchase medical insurance with an annual claim limit of at least S$60,000.

Beyond the sum covered by the insurance, employers are required to bear the full costs of any medical treatment their domestic helpers might need.

According to her employer, Ana's treatment burned through her insurance coverage in just seven days.

By Oct. 30, the total cost reached nearly S$75,000.

Requires S$70,000 for next round of treatment

Ana never failed to "put the well-being of others ahead of her own needs", said her employer.

Now, in her time of need, Ana's employer wishes to repay her for her years of kindness.

They are "urgently trying" to raise S$70,000 to cover her next round of treatment and hospital stay.

They have raised just over S$14,000, as of Nov. 8.

"We hope to raise enough to cover any unexpected needs in the near term and ensure that Ana receives the care required to stabilise her for a safe return to the Philippines, where she can be with her family again," said her employer.

Should Ana recover quicker than expected, they added, remaining funds would go to a certified stroke rehabilitation centre or a charity in Ana's hometown, so as to continue "her lifelong spirit of generosity".

Those who wish to help Ana can donate via Give.Asia.

All funds will be managed by Give.Asia and paid directly to the hospital.

"Ana’s gentle heart has touched many lives, and now she needs the support of her community to get through this challenging time," said her employer.

Top images via Give.Asia