Hello, it’s me, Emily Dionesio from the Philippines. I am currently in Taiwan, working as a caregiver.
My Experience in Taiwan
I would like to share my experiences here in Taiwan, especially at Happy Corner. I began working here on May 5, 2019, taking care of an elderly man who has dementia. Every day, we visited Happy Corner, where he attended classes designed for seniors, participated in activities, exercises, and more.
Meeting Happy Corner
During my time at Happy Corner, I met Mr. Wu, the president of the Happy Corner Association, Claire, the teacher, and several volunteers. Mr. Wu is an excellent director who manages four branches of Happy Corner. Although it’s a challenging job, he remains calm and composed, and I truly respect him for that.
The people at Happy Corner are kind to everyone, especially to foreign workers like me. They treat us like family members. When we are feeling down, they comfort us and offer advice. During the Chinese New Year, we receive gifts and red envelopes. I deeply appreciate that. It’s not just about the gift itself, but the bond we share here at Happy Corner and the memories we create together. All the teachers and staff members I’ve met here have been so kind.
The Happiest Moment
The happiest moment I will never forget was when I met Yuki. She became my employer, mentor, mother, and friend. She gives me advice every day and deeply moves me with her kindness. Whenever I need a hug, she is always there to comfort me. I’m also grateful to her family for their kindness. I will always appreciate them from the bottom of my heart.
The Saddest part of Being a Caregiver
The saddest part of being a caregiver is when your patient passes away. It is very painful to watch them die, and it’s never easy. I’ve had two patients who have already passed, and it was very hard for me. I believe some elders return their lives to God. I took care of Huan ong (番王) for 3 years and 3 months, and baochun mama (寶春媽媽) for 1 year and 9 months. They are both in heaven now. Currently, I have a new patient named Bixia (碧霞), and I hope she lives a long and good life.
Cherishing Memories and Relationship
I have been at Happy Corner for 5 years and have met many wonderful elders. They are sweet and cute, even though some of them, like me, have bad tempers. I have so many memories, like dancing with the elders and playing games with them.
I also remember Akim Papa (阿丁爸), who helped me scrape my back. There are also beautiful Indonesian workers who became my friends. Claire, the young teacher, is sweet, kind, and caring.
What I’ve learned at Happy Corner
I have learned so many valuable lessons at Happy Corner. The experience and the bond we share here are unforgettable. I will always treasure these memories. Currently, I am at another branch of Happy Corner, meeting new teachers, new friends, and new family. Lastly, as a worker in another country, we experience both good and bad things, and it’s all part of our job. We learn to control our emotions, be patient, and, most importantly, we receive love here.
Final words
I would like to thank all the staff members of Happy Corner, as well as the president, for allowing us to stay with you for such a long time. My apologies if I ever said or did something wrong. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to share my story with you. Much love to all, and God bless.
