On the verge of a breakdown, she was then introduced to the Singapore SOKA Association. It proved to be the turning point in her life and gave her new hope and inspiration to live. Throughout the difficult times, her Soka friends will chant prayers to ask for a speedy recovery even though they barely knew each other. It was a truly amazing aspect of humane life.

She explained that it was Buddhist teachings of compassion, care and concern for others that managed to get her back on her feet and overcome the insurmountable challenges ahead. After she recovered, Karen made a vow to do whatever she could to contribute back to the society.

In 2000, she left her lucrative job as an insurance agent and became a full time volunteer. At the National Cancer Centre, she was paired up with seven patients to provide emotional support to them. Initially the patients were skeptical of recovering but after seeing Karen as a real life example, they were given new hope.

Karen's role as a volunteer gave her an opportunity to share her experience with other people. There were many a times when patients would ask her what she ate and did that caused her recovery, but she would tell them that the best medicine is to think positively and never give up hope. As long as they do not give up, there would surely be light at the end of the tunnel.

Her efforts were occasionally quite stressful, as she also had to tend to patients, their tantrums and frustrations. What keeps her going is her religion and the occasional round of golf, ballroom dancing and jogging.

She recalled that there was a particular patient Ah Kheng who would call her in the middle of the night just to convey her sadness. Today, Ah Kheng is well and fine. Karen's selfless act has not only benefited the patients, but is a gentle reminder that even in bad times, we need more people who are willing to sacrifice themselves to help the less fortunate and needy people.

By Eric Koh