FTC is a company that deals not only with fly fishing and fly fishing equipment but also aims to build a better community through fly fishing activities. While not big in terms of capital and manpower but definitely not small in heart, FTC has always placed priority in community activities.
“Bring a child fly fishing” is a great concept to introduce the younger generation to this wonderful sport and there is a saying, “When someone joins fly fishing, you will have a steward for conservation and preservation”. This is very true as fly fishing brings one out to nature where beauty at its best can be experienced firsthand.
A recent project comes to mind. As volunteer in MAPPAC, Brandon is directly involved in the Pediatric Palliative Care. One of the cases referred to him was a child suffering from Relapsed Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia, whose wish was to experience a fishing adventure. After being briefed about the request, FTC wholehearted jumped in to offer support and Ben, an experienced fly casting instructor chipped in with his experience and expertise. It was not a simple task as the pandemic was in full swing with restrictions in many areas. We were battling with time and time was not in Amirul’s favour. Finally, we got the “all clear” and we quickly jumped into action.
On 13 May 2020, our team met Amirul and his family at the hospital. After a final briefing from the doctors, we set off. He looked like any other kid, full of excitement and curious about the world around him. His eyes were full of life and his face lit up upon hearing stories of what to expect that day.
Our forward team was already at the designated fishing pond and tents were set up to provide a cool resting place. Food and drink were made available. Once Amirul arrived, a rod was passed to him and soon he was battling his first fish of the day. With guidance from the team and encouragement from his family, a nice Patin was guided into the net and gently lifted up for a quick photo session. The smile on his face was unbelievable. His energy was incredible. One can easily have mistaken this child to be any normal child.
As the sun rose, the fish became more active and Amirul continued to pull in fish after fish. We were concerned about the hot sun but Amirul wanted to continue. After a quick meal, he was out with a rod in his hands again. The doctors have told us that he would be weak and unable to move actively, but none of these ever happened. Asked if he was tired, he said no but he wanted something to eat. It was promptly prepared for him.
After one final fish, it was time to pack up and head back to the hospital. One the way home, he fell asleep, tired but very happy. His brother told us that he had not been so happy for a very long time. Battling the disease had taken a very heavy toll on him.
The next day, Brandon briefed the doctors and nurses about the event. None of them could believe that he was so energetic throughout the trip. It was also amazing that he had good appetite as it was normal for him to refuse food.
On 3 June, Brandon received a call from the doctor, informing him of the sad news, Amirul has left us. The news sadden our whole team. It was just 20 days ago when we were fishing with him and now he has gone. A video and collection of photos was passed to his family. Life is indeed short and fragile.
It has been a year since Amirul left us but he will forever be remembered for his courage, determination and positive outlook in life. May his memories be an inspiration and hope for everyone.
FTC would like to covey our greatest appreciation for the support, advice and commitment for making this project a success.
Thank you to :
Brandon Ho
Phyllis Yong
Ben
Janice
Dr Lee
For more information about this project, the article on the project was published in the July 2020 MAPPAC newsletter.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/12F3YVMhHljMORgXzDc40-czSWIjxLYH2/view