Nowadays, life is so busy that it can be difficult to recognize what is a priority. Classic LifeCare’s Clinical Nurse Supervisor Malisha and Health Care Worker Irene join in on long-term client Mr. Cheung’s birthday celebrations. They enjoy some fruit cheesecake and tea at his Vancouver home as Mr. Cheung shares details about his life.
Born and raised in Can Tho, Vietnam, Mr. Cheung was the only son of seven children with three older sisters and three younger sisters. After the communists invaded Vietnam, Cheung migrated to Malaysia as a refugee. Six months later in 1979, he emigrated to Canada for better prospects and a safer lifestyle.
Despite growing up during a war, there were many happy memories from his childhood. “In my youth, my hobbies were soccer and snooker. I also liked running around and getting up to mischief.” Cheung jokes cheekily.
A Life of Love and Support
Over the years, Mr. Cheung became friendly with his neighbours, who introduced him to his now-wife Susanne.
“They mentioned that they knew a cute single woman who had moved to Vancouver. They showed me a picture of Susanne and I was impressed. I brought her to Butchart Gardens in Victoria on our first date and the rest is history.”
Originally from Hong Kong, Susanne moved to Vancouver in 1990, where her older brothers were already living. This year, Mr. and Mrs. Cheung celebrate their 20-year wedding anniversary.
Three years into their married life, Mr. Cheung had an accident that resulted in a spinal cord injury. This changed many aspects of their lives, including their travel plans.
Nowadays, Mr. Cheung enjoys browsing online, looking at Food Network, and watching travel videos. The internet has helped him explore different destinations from his home, including his native Vietnam. Cheung also loves music and listens to 70’s and 80’s music along with Chinese classical music.
Make Travel a Priority
Recognizing Mr. and Mrs. Cheung’s wisdom, Malisha asked what advice they would give to the future generation.
“Accidents can happen at any time. We had great plans to travel and do lots of activities after our marriage which unfortunately changed following the accident. Our advice would be to make time for the things that really matter. You may feel like it is not the right time, but there may never be a right time. Prioritize and take small trips whenever you can,” Mr. and Mrs. Cheung answered heartfully.
Priority Home Care Experience
Mr. Cheung started receiving home care from Classic LifeCare in 2006. Classic LifeCare Health Care Worker, Irene, has been supporting Cheung for almost 10 years and has built a strong relationship with him and his wife Susanne.
Speaking about the care provided by Classic LifeCare, he mentions “The care is very client-centred and nurturing. Overall, there is great communication from the client care coordinators and clinical nurses. I am always met with friendly voices and faces.”
When considering his care plan, Mr. Cheung opted for home care services due to the personal element. Receiving home care from Classic LifeCare over the past 16 years has made him feel secure.
“I feel safer and more comfortable in my own home knowing that there are healthcare professionals supporting me. I feel like I am a priority with Classic LifeCare. Oftentimes, facilities are crowded, and work schedules are busy for the healthcare team. I was worried that I wouldn’t get the care that I needed in a facility and that is why I decided to proceed with home care. I am happy that I chose to stay at home.” answered Cheung gratefully.
Click here to learn more about Classic LifeCare’s home care services.
