“Thank you, Community Rehabilitation Network, for bringing joy to my senior years.” Lu Cuili, a 68-year-old retiree, had plans to travel around but unfortunately encountered the pandemic and was plagued by physical pain. All her plans had to be altered. Fortunately, she knew how to seek help and found Community Rehabilitation Network through social media.
To this day, the cause of Christina’s chronic pain remains unknown, but it is speculated to be psychosomatic—a result of being accustomed to being busy and feeling uncomfortable when not engaged in work. In the early stages of her pain, Christina couldn’t sleep or cook properly, and she felt like a useless person. It wasn’t until she came acrossCommunity Rehabilitation Network that things started to change. There were nutritionists, exercise classes, and opportunities to volunteer. “During this time, I felt much more relaxed, and the sensation of pain gradually diminished.”
Among the various courses, Christina particularly enjoys the exercise classes and is grateful for the patient guidance of the instructors. “I tried attending three classes in a single day, participating in morning, afternoon, and evening exercise classes. My daughter laughed at me, saying I’m not even this hardworking when I have a job. It shows how much I truly enjoy it.” Everyone knows the importance of establishing healthy habits in life, but it’s not an easy task to accomplish alone. That’s why Christina, through the class group, works together with like-minded individuals to build an exercise routine. Now, she can consistently wake up at 8 am every morning to exercise for thirty minutes at home. She also tries to walk 10,000 steps every day, moving from the kitchen to the living room and back.
Apart from attending activities at different centers four days a week, Christina also has a habit of volunteering. She prefers socializing with others rather than being alone at home. “The most memorable experience for me was on December 11, 2022, when I participated Barrier Busters. It was a cold day, and I was stationed at a task point in Sai Ying Pun, enduring a drizzle that froze me to the bone. I saw some disabled individuals participating in our activities, and their joy moved me. I reflected on why I couldn’t do the same and realized I should strive harder and even become someone who can help others.” Although her chronic pain has worsened as she has gotten older, Christina refuses to let it defeat the healthy lifestyle she has worked hard to establish.
Christina describes CRN as a bridge connecting her with others who have similar experiences and a team of professionals from various fields. This connection enriches her social relationships, allowing her to find a community she can rely on and share with, where they support and learn from each other. “I’m happy to have found a group of like-minded friends. We have tea together before attending classes at the center, go for walks, have buffets, and even travel together. I have gained so much from CRN in the past two to three years. The activities provided by the organization give me confidence and introduce me to many friends with whom I can share and confide in.”