TITTLE: Searching for Marita
NAME: choozhiying (4)
CLASS: 3G
summary:
This article is about a woman named Susana Trimarco finding her missing daughter. She had to disguise herself as a prostitute in order to increase the chances of her finding her daughter. On the way, she found many teenagers that are forced to become a prostitute. She also found out the cruelty of the human trafficking. She managed to save many of the young girls from their misery, she gave some of them shelter. Because of her determinations to find her daughter, it used up most of her savings and her husband had left her.
Reflections:
I think that her love for her daughter is so strong that made her so determined to find her. I believe the power of love that our parents had for us, will give us the strength to overcome any obstacle. Ms. Susana must have really love her daughter deeply that she is willing to spend all her savings on the journey of finding her daughter. I believe that if I am Ms. Susana, I would not be able to accept the fact that my daughter was kidnapped, and would also not have the courage to find her in the whole of human trafficking. This also shows that parents are willing to do anything to exchange for their children safety.
The girls that are forced to become prostitute are very pitiful. They were beaten up and forced to take drugs. I do not understand why people would want to kidnap young girls and force them to become prostitute. If I were captured, I would rather die than to become a prostitute. It is very lucky that Singapore has a government that protects the people, unlike the Argentina. The security in Singapore is much better as compared to Argentina.
It is also mentioned that pregnant girls undergo forced abortions with a coat hanger. I think it is very cruel of them to do that, I really could not imagine how they managed to use a hanger to carried out abortions. Imagine the pain the prostitute had to go through, and I believe, when the abortion is carried out, there are no pain killer for the pregnant girls to take. It is also very unfair for the prostitute as they were not given a choice to keep the foetus or to abort it. The pregnant girls must be suffering when they are being forced to go through abortions.
Ms. Susana effort of finding her daughter alerted the media. I am glad as the media are able to help her to find her daughter and to save other girls that are forced to become a prostitute. With the media help, those human traffickers would not be so daring as to capture girls on the streets. This would also warn the human trafficker about the consequences of kidnapping them and forced them to become a prostitute.
In conclusion, I think Ms. Susana is a very brave mother. She not only finding her daughter but also helping girls in the country that are forced to become prostitute. I respected her and her actions made me feel proud to be a female. Her actions not only help the prostitutes but also help the whole country of girls to prevent them from getting kidnapped.
Monday, June 30, 2008
Sunday, June 29, 2008
This article is about a woman named Susana Trimarco finding her missing daughter. Instead she discovered a shadowy world of human trafficking and forced prostitution. She disguised herself as a prostitute in order to finding her daughter. Even though she could not get help from the police, she did not give out to search for her daughter because of her determinations. In addition to helping victims and their families, Susana has travelled the country persuading the politicians to enact a law that would make human trafficking a federal crime. She is also pressuring government officials to establish a federal office to help victims. She also helps victims of sex trafficking get medical and psychological treatment and job training and provides food and shelter.
Reflections:
Miss Susana is a determined person. She will not give out in doing something easily. She is also a wonderful mother. From the story, we can see that she love her daughter very much. No matter what, she wanted to find her missing daughter and she is willing to spend all her savings on the journey of finding her daughter. Most of all, she willing to disguise as a prostitute to find her daughter. This shows that her sacrifice made is really very big. This made me realise that all parents love their children just like susana love her daughter and the power of love could give us the strength to overcome any obstacle we met. This also shows that parents are willing to do anything for their children. She is a very brave mother. She not only found her daughter but also helped many girls in the country that are forced to become prostitute. Her actions has made all women proud. Her actions not only help the prostitutes but let the others know more about it. As her efforts have alerted the media, the levels of human trafficking will surely decrease as human traffickers would not be so daring as to capture girls on the streets. This would also warn the human trafficker about the consequences of kidnapping them and and forced them to become a prostitute. The girls that are forced to become prostitute are very pitiful. Their freedom was lost and they could not live like those happy children. They might also suffer a lot from it as this is not what they want. They might be abused and get pregnant. Since if they get pregnant, they will have to go for abortions. I think it is very cruel of them to do that as it really painful for the girls to go for abortions and too much abortions may make their lives at risk.
Name: Jaslin Chua (5)
Class: 3G
Reflections:
Miss Susana is a determined person. She will not give out in doing something easily. She is also a wonderful mother. From the story, we can see that she love her daughter very much. No matter what, she wanted to find her missing daughter and she is willing to spend all her savings on the journey of finding her daughter. Most of all, she willing to disguise as a prostitute to find her daughter. This shows that her sacrifice made is really very big. This made me realise that all parents love their children just like susana love her daughter and the power of love could give us the strength to overcome any obstacle we met. This also shows that parents are willing to do anything for their children. She is a very brave mother. She not only found her daughter but also helped many girls in the country that are forced to become prostitute. Her actions has made all women proud. Her actions not only help the prostitutes but let the others know more about it. As her efforts have alerted the media, the levels of human trafficking will surely decrease as human traffickers would not be so daring as to capture girls on the streets. This would also warn the human trafficker about the consequences of kidnapping them and and forced them to become a prostitute. The girls that are forced to become prostitute are very pitiful. Their freedom was lost and they could not live like those happy children. They might also suffer a lot from it as this is not what they want. They might be abused and get pregnant. Since if they get pregnant, they will have to go for abortions. I think it is very cruel of them to do that as it really painful for the girls to go for abortions and too much abortions may make their lives at risk.
Name: Jaslin Chua (5)
Class: 3G
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Terrosim this day has threaten almost all state around the world as they used nuclear weapons to attack cities which are highly populated.the material required to creath their weapons are hard to find and so they would be either buying it from "rogue country" or even resort to stealing from the countries.people and the economy would be badly affacted by the attacks and the whole world would go into tight sercurities every time after an attack. in feb 2007, the united states, china, russia, south Korea and japan persuaded North korea to freeze and ultimately dismantle its nuclear programmes.that was a terrific accomplishment. however, north korea broke a similar promise in 1994.In Iran, France, Britian and Germany tried to negotiate an end to the uranuem programme but had failed.
FrOM: NG WUFONG (41 )
FrOM: NG WUFONG (41 )
SEARCHING FOR MAEITA
-----MAY 08 ISSUE Pg91-96
This is an article about a great mother who named Susana Trimarco of Argentina, sent out to find her missing daughter, Maria de los Angles Veron.. Instead she discovered a shadowy world of human trafficking and forced prostitution.
Marita was kidnapped in April,2002 by a trafficking network for sexual exploitation when she walked along the sidewalk. This is seen by a neighbour .However, this news only got worse. It broke the initial thought that Marita was just off with her boyfriend and would return in a day or two.
Firstly, Marita and her husband took action with the police but everytime her dear daughter had been whisked away shortly before they arrived because someone clearly someone had tipped off the owner about the raid. Susana knew she must find her daughter by herself or she would lose her forever.
To pay for her investigation, Susana lose a lot of things in her life but she determinedly find the daughter. Susana exhausted most of her saving and sale her house, Marita’s house, two cars even led to her and her husband separating.
Susana’s efforts have led her into dangerous situations, trolling bars and streets in search of anyone who might knew something about her daughter. She has been threatened, tricked and received false leads and death threats, but nothing has scared her.
During almost six year constantly searching, Susana discovered that many girls and women were also victims of this trafficking networks. She has rescued more than 200 girls who was forced into prostitution but sadly not her own daughter.
Personally, I think it is quite a pitiful thing in the society. I cannot believe human trafficking and sexual exploitation happens in the world while it actually exists. To reduce human trafficking, governments should make strict laws and develop systems of co-operation between different nations. Other action is raise awareness among the public.
For those victims, a group of professionals is quite needed in charge of psychological and medical assistance and searching for the most suitable path. So the victims can start recovering her self worth and can go back living in society.
In addition Once the victim is found the legal counsel continues to report the crime and to identify the trafficking networks existing in the country.
Done by : Wang Wenjia (27) 3G
-----MAY 08 ISSUE Pg91-96
This is an article about a great mother who named Susana Trimarco of Argentina, sent out to find her missing daughter, Maria de los Angles Veron.. Instead she discovered a shadowy world of human trafficking and forced prostitution.
Marita was kidnapped in April,2002 by a trafficking network for sexual exploitation when she walked along the sidewalk. This is seen by a neighbour .However, this news only got worse. It broke the initial thought that Marita was just off with her boyfriend and would return in a day or two.
Firstly, Marita and her husband took action with the police but everytime her dear daughter had been whisked away shortly before they arrived because someone clearly someone had tipped off the owner about the raid. Susana knew she must find her daughter by herself or she would lose her forever.
To pay for her investigation, Susana lose a lot of things in her life but she determinedly find the daughter. Susana exhausted most of her saving and sale her house, Marita’s house, two cars even led to her and her husband separating.
Susana’s efforts have led her into dangerous situations, trolling bars and streets in search of anyone who might knew something about her daughter. She has been threatened, tricked and received false leads and death threats, but nothing has scared her.
During almost six year constantly searching, Susana discovered that many girls and women were also victims of this trafficking networks. She has rescued more than 200 girls who was forced into prostitution but sadly not her own daughter.
Personally, I think it is quite a pitiful thing in the society. I cannot believe human trafficking and sexual exploitation happens in the world while it actually exists. To reduce human trafficking, governments should make strict laws and develop systems of co-operation between different nations. Other action is raise awareness among the public.
For those victims, a group of professionals is quite needed in charge of psychological and medical assistance and searching for the most suitable path. So the victims can start recovering her self worth and can go back living in society.
In addition Once the victim is found the legal counsel continues to report the crime and to identify the trafficking networks existing in the country.
Done by : Wang Wenjia (27) 3G
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Jump or die[RD May 2008,pg56-62]
Dear Ms Heng,sorry for posting the assignment late...Please accept it and mark it....
Tom Murphy went on a skiing trip with his travelling companion.On his last day there,he woke up early and left his friend to go"off-piste'' alone.At first,he was sure where he wanted to go.However,after skiing for a while, he was lost and even met with an avalanche.He survived by clinging on a rock.He continued to ski down steep slopes and then jumped thrice from different cliffs.The first jump was more successful but for the second and third jump,he hurt his legs and other parts of his body.Instead of giving up,he persevered and carried on until he was saved.
After reading the article,I have learnt many things from Tom.Firstly,we should be hardworking.Tom took his third A-levels while working as a builder's labourer and two years ago,he went back to college to learn plumbing.Secondly, to have perseverance.After the first fall,he forced his bruised limbs to work.But after the second fall,even with his hurt thighs,back and head,he continued to descend from the cliff.If he had not persevered but had given up earlier,he might not be living now.He might be starved or frozen to death if he continued to sit on the cliff and wait.With perseverance,we can do things more successfully.Therefore, it is very important to have perseverance.
Thirdly,we should never do things that we are not supposed to do.We should not break rules.Tom did not adhere to the rules and went "off-piste".If he was unlucky and if the search team had not found him,he would be dead.Fourthly,we should be brave and courageous.Although afraid,he jumped from the cliffs for his life."1 millimetre at a time,Tom edged over the rock." "one more and I'll go."
Lastly,we must always stay calm and have a clear thinking.If he did not think properly,he would not have used his handphone to call and message the others,clinged to the rock when the avalanche came and used snow to measure how far he was from the cliff and what was down the cliff.If he did not think properly,he might have done the wrong things and end up dead.Therefore we must always stay calm and have clear thinking ,especially when we are in trouble.
Tom Murphy went on a skiing trip with his travelling companion.On his last day there,he woke up early and left his friend to go"off-piste'' alone.At first,he was sure where he wanted to go.However,after skiing for a while, he was lost and even met with an avalanche.He survived by clinging on a rock.He continued to ski down steep slopes and then jumped thrice from different cliffs.The first jump was more successful but for the second and third jump,he hurt his legs and other parts of his body.Instead of giving up,he persevered and carried on until he was saved.
After reading the article,I have learnt many things from Tom.Firstly,we should be hardworking.Tom took his third A-levels while working as a builder's labourer and two years ago,he went back to college to learn plumbing.Secondly, to have perseverance.After the first fall,he forced his bruised limbs to work.But after the second fall,even with his hurt thighs,back and head,he continued to descend from the cliff.If he had not persevered but had given up earlier,he might not be living now.He might be starved or frozen to death if he continued to sit on the cliff and wait.With perseverance,we can do things more successfully.Therefore, it is very important to have perseverance.
Thirdly,we should never do things that we are not supposed to do.We should not break rules.Tom did not adhere to the rules and went "off-piste".If he was unlucky and if the search team had not found him,he would be dead.Fourthly,we should be brave and courageous.Although afraid,he jumped from the cliffs for his life."1 millimetre at a time,Tom edged over the rock." "one more and I'll go."
Lastly,we must always stay calm and have a clear thinking.If he did not think properly,he would not have used his handphone to call and message the others,clinged to the rock when the avalanche came and used snow to measure how far he was from the cliff and what was down the cliff.If he did not think properly,he might have done the wrong things and end up dead.Therefore we must always stay calm and have clear thinking ,especially when we are in trouble.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Reader Digest May 2008-----Pg 30~Pg 33
This article is about the nuclear incident in Brussels. On that Sunny afternoon, a terrorist presses a button and a small explosion occurs and propels a 'bullet' made of uranium into a cylindrical block cast from uranium. Within a few seconds, Ground Zero is heated to 100 million degrees centigrade, breaking all surroding matter into a formless plasma. Not only that, the gamma rays and neutrons killed a lot of people. The economic consequences of the blast quickly spread worldwide as Brussels had to cease all its commmerce. All the nuclear weapons are fuelled by either plutonium or uranium, materials that are extremely dfficult to make. If a terroist wanted to build a nuclear bomb, he would need to steal or buy fissile material from a country that had made it. One potential source would be from North Korea or Iran. I feel that there is no reason to buy from them as they are both rare materials and expensive to buy. Buying nuclear bomb and killing people does not mean any purpose either. Not only that, the thrist for buying these nuclear weapon would affect the country internal security as there would be more theft crimes. However, both North Korea and Iran still continue to sell their nuclear weapons so as to earn more money. Although they are being warned by other countres not to sell them, they ignored them. I feel that we must also clamp down on poorly safeguarded nuclear materials so that we could prevent terrorism. There are ways to reap the benefits of nuclear energy without putting our lives at risk, but it will take strong leadership. I suggest we could put the production of all nuclear fuel under the control of a global organisation like the International Atomic Enegry Agency so that the terrorist would easily get hold of them. To be sure terrorist cannot build a nuclear weapon, the world coummunity needs to lock up every bit of fissile material in Russia. However, even though we solved these problems, there is a one way in which the threat if nuclear terrorism would grow worse: after a three-decade lull, nuclear energy is coming back. We could prevent it by securing nuclear materials with well-trained security guards, adequate physical barriers, video cameras and remote sensors, new reactors could increase the availability of fissile materials.I feel that all these preventions could work if we have good leader to lead us.With the age of terrorism threatening to become an age of nuclear terrorism, perhaps it's worth another look. For the sake of all the innocent people and our next genrations, we must work hard to prevent another nuclear war.
From: ANG JUN HAO ( 30 )
From: ANG JUN HAO ( 30 )
A Healing Fire (June 2008, Pg. 116-129)
Author: Leow Jian Zhong (38)
Heading: A Healing Fire
Origin: Reader Digest June 2008 Issue Page 116-129
In brief summary, this piece of article from Reader’s Digest June 2008 is generally about a story of this Cambodian man by the name of Sokreaksa S. Himm, whose whole family had been killed by the Khmer Rouge during the Khmer Rouge occupation in 1975, Cambodia.
During that point of time, Sokreaksa was 11 years old. Together with his family, they were living at a village in Siem Reap. One morning, one of the Khmer Rouge agents, known as chlops, summoned his whole family, which includes his father, mother and 11 siblings, for execution as they had been identified as the enemy of the angkar loeu, the local Khmer Rouge leader. Young Sokreaksa witnessed how his father was brutally killed by the Khmer Rouge, and was greatly horrified. Soon, he and the rest of his siblings were killed and buried in a huge trench. However, Sokreaksa was very fortunate that he was still conscious enough to get out of the trench before the Khmer Rouge came back with more people ready to be killed. Sokreaksa managed to escape from there but he was helpless, as he saw how his mother was tortured to death by the Khmer Rouge. After the entire massacre, the Khmer Rouge carelessly filled the grave.
Feeling despair and infuriated, Sokreaksa vowed that he would avenge for their deaths. When he grew up and became an adult, he had opportunities to revenge those who had killed his whole family. But every time there is an opportunity, he just couldn’t do it. He left for Canada as he can no longer stay in Cambodia, which brings him sufferings and hatred. During his stay in Canada, he knew friends from churches, and Sokreaksa slowly realise that forgiving them is a better choice. One day, Sokreaksa was given a chance to go back to Cambodia to propagate Christianity and to counsel those who are scarred by the Khmer Rouge.
It took him years to decide to go back to Cambodia and to forgive those who had killed his family. When he was back to Cambodia in 1999, he went to search for those chlops who he wanted to revenge on. Instead of killing them, Sokreaksa counsel them and even give them a hug, which represent that he had forgiven all of them. Sokreaksa had also arranged to build a school in the village.
I was greatly touched by this article. To forgive a person is difficult. To forgive a person who had hurt you is more difficult. To forgive a person who had killed your whole family out of nothing is impossible. Sokreaksa managed to forgive all of those who had killed his family. I am very impressed by this guy, that after so many years, he still went back to Cambodia and in search for the former Khmer Rouge and to forgive them. This story also proved that a religion is able to transform and change one’s life and perception to the better. Sokreaksa is also a charitable person as he donated to build a school in the village that he grew up.
Personally I do believe in “Forgiving and Forgetting”. To forgive another person for their mistake is difficult, but it is only through this that you can cure the grudge deep inside your heart.
To conclude, I would like to say that to forgive somebody; it requires a lot of courage. Hence I’m very impress by what Sokreaksa did.
Heading: A Healing Fire
Origin: Reader Digest June 2008 Issue Page 116-129
In brief summary, this piece of article from Reader’s Digest June 2008 is generally about a story of this Cambodian man by the name of Sokreaksa S. Himm, whose whole family had been killed by the Khmer Rouge during the Khmer Rouge occupation in 1975, Cambodia.
During that point of time, Sokreaksa was 11 years old. Together with his family, they were living at a village in Siem Reap. One morning, one of the Khmer Rouge agents, known as chlops, summoned his whole family, which includes his father, mother and 11 siblings, for execution as they had been identified as the enemy of the angkar loeu, the local Khmer Rouge leader. Young Sokreaksa witnessed how his father was brutally killed by the Khmer Rouge, and was greatly horrified. Soon, he and the rest of his siblings were killed and buried in a huge trench. However, Sokreaksa was very fortunate that he was still conscious enough to get out of the trench before the Khmer Rouge came back with more people ready to be killed. Sokreaksa managed to escape from there but he was helpless, as he saw how his mother was tortured to death by the Khmer Rouge. After the entire massacre, the Khmer Rouge carelessly filled the grave.
Feeling despair and infuriated, Sokreaksa vowed that he would avenge for their deaths. When he grew up and became an adult, he had opportunities to revenge those who had killed his whole family. But every time there is an opportunity, he just couldn’t do it. He left for Canada as he can no longer stay in Cambodia, which brings him sufferings and hatred. During his stay in Canada, he knew friends from churches, and Sokreaksa slowly realise that forgiving them is a better choice. One day, Sokreaksa was given a chance to go back to Cambodia to propagate Christianity and to counsel those who are scarred by the Khmer Rouge.
It took him years to decide to go back to Cambodia and to forgive those who had killed his family. When he was back to Cambodia in 1999, he went to search for those chlops who he wanted to revenge on. Instead of killing them, Sokreaksa counsel them and even give them a hug, which represent that he had forgiven all of them. Sokreaksa had also arranged to build a school in the village.
I was greatly touched by this article. To forgive a person is difficult. To forgive a person who had hurt you is more difficult. To forgive a person who had killed your whole family out of nothing is impossible. Sokreaksa managed to forgive all of those who had killed his family. I am very impressed by this guy, that after so many years, he still went back to Cambodia and in search for the former Khmer Rouge and to forgive them. This story also proved that a religion is able to transform and change one’s life and perception to the better. Sokreaksa is also a charitable person as he donated to build a school in the village that he grew up.
Personally I do believe in “Forgiving and Forgetting”. To forgive another person for their mistake is difficult, but it is only through this that you can cure the grudge deep inside your heart.
To conclude, I would like to say that to forgive somebody; it requires a lot of courage. Hence I’m very impress by what Sokreaksa did.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Searching For Marita
By: Samuel Loh ( crazy bunch roxz )
Title: Searching For Marita
Author: Daniel Rome Levine
Origin: May 08 Readers Digest Page 91 ~ 96
"Searching for Marita". Basically, the summary of this story is about a person named Susana Trimaroo of Argentina who had set out to find her missing daughter, Maria de los Angeles Veron. Instead she discovered a shadowy world of human trafficking and forced prostitution.
In order to accomplish this difficult task, Susana even risked her own precious life. The biggest risk she had committed was to disguised herself as a prostitute. By doing this, she would be able to venture into seedy bars, asking girls if they had seen Marita or heard anything about her. Even though she knew that her life may just end one day because of what she is doing now, Suana still won't give up on searching for Marita. The bond between a mother and her child is just too impossible to break apart.
23-year-old daughter,Maria de los Angeles Veron went missing on April 3, 2002. Susana's nightmare began when Marita, as everyone called her, did not return from a morning doctor appointment. As the sun sets, Susana and her husband, Daniel Veron gotten worried and went to their local police station to file a missing persons report but unfortunately, they have to wait 72 hours before the police can open an investigation. In the end, Susana and Daniel decided to organise a search party and with about 50 relatives and friends of Marita, they blanketed Tucuman with handmade posters with Marita's photo and some contact phone number.
Even though everyone is hoping for good news about Marita, but life is just unfair as three days later, a man called saying that he had seen Marita being tackled while walking along a sidewalk. Two men jumped out and grabbed Marita and even though she fought hard to get away, she didn't succeed as they hit her and threw her into the back seat. The news just got worst when Daniel was being told by a young girl that she had seen Marita in a brothel in La Rioja. Because of this devastating news, Susana suspected that her daughter was being forced into prostitution.
Because of having resilience to find her daughter, Susana resorted to great risks like disguising as a prostitute, exhausting up all her savings, selling her house and two cars just to find her. By doing these sacrifices and showing single-minded obsession, it led to her and Daniel separating. Having such great determination in finding her missing daughter may be good but it also endangered her life and people around her. Soon after, this really came true as the bar owners and human traffickers would not let Susana off so easily. many hit-and-runs were attempted so as to kill Susana or silence her. Instead of being silence, Susana obtained more determination than ever and now, she participated in the campaign for preventing human trafficking more actively. Nowadays, many mothers who had their daughters being kidnapped away will come to Susana more often for help then going to the police. This shows how much Susana had committed in the prevention of human trafficking that people trust her more than the police in helping to find their daughters who are being kidnapped. Susana responded with great heart to each one of them and tried her best to help them.
By doing all these things, Susana had helped about 200 girls who are forced into prostitution to obtain back their freedom. Susana had also became one of the ten women who was selected to receive an international Women of Courage Award. In the end, Susana still couldn't find Marita but she said one thing and that is her mission is now no longer to search for just Marita but for all the girls who have disappeared in this country and to help and protect those who have been freed. Hurray for Susana and hope that she can find Marita and made the world a much peaceful and wonderful place.
Title: Searching For Marita
Author: Daniel Rome Levine
Origin: May 08 Readers Digest Page 91 ~ 96
"Searching for Marita". Basically, the summary of this story is about a person named Susana Trimaroo of Argentina who had set out to find her missing daughter, Maria de los Angeles Veron. Instead she discovered a shadowy world of human trafficking and forced prostitution.
In order to accomplish this difficult task, Susana even risked her own precious life. The biggest risk she had committed was to disguised herself as a prostitute. By doing this, she would be able to venture into seedy bars, asking girls if they had seen Marita or heard anything about her. Even though she knew that her life may just end one day because of what she is doing now, Suana still won't give up on searching for Marita. The bond between a mother and her child is just too impossible to break apart.
23-year-old daughter,Maria de los Angeles Veron went missing on April 3, 2002. Susana's nightmare began when Marita, as everyone called her, did not return from a morning doctor appointment. As the sun sets, Susana and her husband, Daniel Veron gotten worried and went to their local police station to file a missing persons report but unfortunately, they have to wait 72 hours before the police can open an investigation. In the end, Susana and Daniel decided to organise a search party and with about 50 relatives and friends of Marita, they blanketed Tucuman with handmade posters with Marita's photo and some contact phone number.
Even though everyone is hoping for good news about Marita, but life is just unfair as three days later, a man called saying that he had seen Marita being tackled while walking along a sidewalk. Two men jumped out and grabbed Marita and even though she fought hard to get away, she didn't succeed as they hit her and threw her into the back seat. The news just got worst when Daniel was being told by a young girl that she had seen Marita in a brothel in La Rioja. Because of this devastating news, Susana suspected that her daughter was being forced into prostitution.
Because of having resilience to find her daughter, Susana resorted to great risks like disguising as a prostitute, exhausting up all her savings, selling her house and two cars just to find her. By doing these sacrifices and showing single-minded obsession, it led to her and Daniel separating. Having such great determination in finding her missing daughter may be good but it also endangered her life and people around her. Soon after, this really came true as the bar owners and human traffickers would not let Susana off so easily. many hit-and-runs were attempted so as to kill Susana or silence her. Instead of being silence, Susana obtained more determination than ever and now, she participated in the campaign for preventing human trafficking more actively. Nowadays, many mothers who had their daughters being kidnapped away will come to Susana more often for help then going to the police. This shows how much Susana had committed in the prevention of human trafficking that people trust her more than the police in helping to find their daughters who are being kidnapped. Susana responded with great heart to each one of them and tried her best to help them.
By doing all these things, Susana had helped about 200 girls who are forced into prostitution to obtain back their freedom. Susana had also became one of the ten women who was selected to receive an international Women of Courage Award. In the end, Susana still couldn't find Marita but she said one thing and that is her mission is now no longer to search for just Marita but for all the girls who have disappeared in this country and to help and protect those who have been freed. Hurray for Susana and hope that she can find Marita and made the world a much peaceful and wonderful place.
Personally, I feel that the world need to have more people like Susana. She has a heart as pure as crystal. We need to be as kind as she is and also as heart loving as she is. In order to obtain this, we must also show resilience like she had. Susana had shown a great deal of resilience and determination in searching for her missing daughter, Marita. She had never think once about giving up and always shows confidence in everything she decided to do. Susana had also shown how strong the mother's love for her child is. She could go to such desperate measures in trying to save her kids. For instance, Susana even disguised as a prostitute and venture into bars so as to gather information about her daughter. Moreover, she had to risk her life as many human traffickers and pub owners were after her life; even the police refuse to help her as she was a powerless woman. I truly can't believe that the police think she is a powerless woman because what she done really impressed me and it is not only me, the world was also impressed by her. She had shown how strong a woman can be. This story not only shows the shadowy world of human trafficking and forced prostitution, it also shows how strong a mother's love is towards her child. I also feel sad for those girls that were being forced into prostitution because they were really pitiful. If they were willing by their own will, I have nothing to say but they were taken by their own will so I feel really sad for them. They were tortured by their employers and also their customers. Even though they are being force to show a happy face on the outside, on the inside they are crying bitterly. How could anyone be so evil and cold-hearted to separate the girls from their parents and let them experience such terrible labours. I wish that now, the world can be a much peaceful place and no one would ever need to be force into prostitution or human trafficking anymore! I also hope that everyone can shoe resilience in their life and never give up on whatever they try to achieve! Hurray for Susana!
One more thing to add, in October, Susana opened the Fundacion Maria de los Angeles Por la Lucha Contra la Trata de Personas in Tucuman and Buenos Aires. It helps victims of sex trafficking get medical and psychological treatment and job training, and provides food and shelter. Since she had done a part for the world, why don't we do the same? We can always try our best and one day we will succeed! Enjoy reading and do a part for the world!
Done by: Samuel Loh :D (CRAZY BUNCH ROXZ)
REFLECTIONS ON
How to Click and Clean
Andy Simmons
Reader’s Digest: June issue
Pg 72-77
This article generally talks of the internet and how employers are making use of the internet to check on future employees and determine their credibility of their résumés. Andy Simmons advises Myspace addicts and Facebook users to take precaution and not put all trust in profiles that claims to be private.
*the end :DD*
3G (15)
Monday, June 16, 2008
Words to inspire
Name: Soo Xuan(23)
Title: Words to inspire
Author: Cynthia Dermody
Origin: June 08 Readers Digest Page 53 ~ 57
This article is about how to communicate effectively with kids. Some praises or common words no matter how well-intended can do a lot of emotional and psychological harm to young brains which are still developing through the teen years. They cannot expect words, context and sarcasm the way adult’s brain does.
In the article there is a twelve years old boy, CJ. CJ‘s team had lost a match, however he did quite well scoring every single one of his team’s 24 points. He thought that he will hear his family waiting in bleachers saying he was awesome or things like way to hustle for all those points. Instead CJ’s aunt said, “Now, if you could just help your team-mates play as well as you do, you guys would be unstoppable!” This was meant as a compliment; however, CJ thought it was meant as a comment. He was agitated when he did not receive any compliments he had expected from his family members. On the other hand, his aunt could not understand the reaction just when he had finished showering him with praises.
The article has seven common phrases that could get message across in a better way. One example is when a child wanted to buy something like a video game or a doll when he or she already have one at home. An adult might say they can’t afford that. The message that gets across to their child will be money is the answer for everything. It’s true that a child may not need another video game or doll at home, however by repeatedly saying money is the only reason he cannot get what he wanted, it may be sending the message that money is the source of all things good in life. There is a better way to say it like” the stored is filled with great things today, but we’ve got lots at home already and we’re not going to bring home anything more.” I think that adult should care more about the child feeling. Like when a child wanted to buy something unnecessary, for example a toy, which may be cheaper than a necessary thing such as laptop which an older child wanted. An adult would buy for the older sibling instead of the young one. The younger one will think that you are biased when the message you get across to them is money is everything. However on the other hand, an adult should also not agree to buy everything a child wanted. This will be giving them too much luxury in a material way. In another words, an adult will allow their child to be spoiled, they will not get the meaning or excess and gratitude this way. In my opinion, I think a child should learn to save and be thriftier when they are young. Adults could teach them to put money in a piggy bank or ways similar, they could also be role model themselves. When they child gets older, it becomes a habit, and by that time you could talk more about finances matters to them. As a child, I think we should understand what our parent wanted us to understand.
Another example given in the article is adults will always say “don’t talk to strangers.” This is meant as a care and concern for their child, but the child may think that anyone you don’t know is trying to hurt you. Teens nowadays talking to strangers are common sight especially since the technology makes the world smaller. They could talk to people they never met before however it might not be that they are in danger. In fact we do talk to strangers everyday, for example in a supermarket. I think that parents are afraid that children talking to stranger mainly are because they often see news about children being kidnapped or other crimes concerning children. However come to think of it, there are also cases whereby children are being kidnapped by people as close as their relatives. In opinion, I think that parents should allow children the freedom to talk to anyone they wanted, however parents should warn them not to talk to people who make them uncomfortable and must inform them if such cases happens. As a child, I do talk to strangers but I should be aware who we should talk or who we should avoid.
Furthermore, I do not think that adult should worry too much if a child does not understand your meaning. Be patient and try and explain it to them in a more suitable manner.
Title: Words to inspire
Author: Cynthia Dermody
Origin: June 08 Readers Digest Page 53 ~ 57
This article is about how to communicate effectively with kids. Some praises or common words no matter how well-intended can do a lot of emotional and psychological harm to young brains which are still developing through the teen years. They cannot expect words, context and sarcasm the way adult’s brain does.
In the article there is a twelve years old boy, CJ. CJ‘s team had lost a match, however he did quite well scoring every single one of his team’s 24 points. He thought that he will hear his family waiting in bleachers saying he was awesome or things like way to hustle for all those points. Instead CJ’s aunt said, “Now, if you could just help your team-mates play as well as you do, you guys would be unstoppable!” This was meant as a compliment; however, CJ thought it was meant as a comment. He was agitated when he did not receive any compliments he had expected from his family members. On the other hand, his aunt could not understand the reaction just when he had finished showering him with praises.
The article has seven common phrases that could get message across in a better way. One example is when a child wanted to buy something like a video game or a doll when he or she already have one at home. An adult might say they can’t afford that. The message that gets across to their child will be money is the answer for everything. It’s true that a child may not need another video game or doll at home, however by repeatedly saying money is the only reason he cannot get what he wanted, it may be sending the message that money is the source of all things good in life. There is a better way to say it like” the stored is filled with great things today, but we’ve got lots at home already and we’re not going to bring home anything more.” I think that adult should care more about the child feeling. Like when a child wanted to buy something unnecessary, for example a toy, which may be cheaper than a necessary thing such as laptop which an older child wanted. An adult would buy for the older sibling instead of the young one. The younger one will think that you are biased when the message you get across to them is money is everything. However on the other hand, an adult should also not agree to buy everything a child wanted. This will be giving them too much luxury in a material way. In another words, an adult will allow their child to be spoiled, they will not get the meaning or excess and gratitude this way. In my opinion, I think a child should learn to save and be thriftier when they are young. Adults could teach them to put money in a piggy bank or ways similar, they could also be role model themselves. When they child gets older, it becomes a habit, and by that time you could talk more about finances matters to them. As a child, I think we should understand what our parent wanted us to understand.
Another example given in the article is adults will always say “don’t talk to strangers.” This is meant as a care and concern for their child, but the child may think that anyone you don’t know is trying to hurt you. Teens nowadays talking to strangers are common sight especially since the technology makes the world smaller. They could talk to people they never met before however it might not be that they are in danger. In fact we do talk to strangers everyday, for example in a supermarket. I think that parents are afraid that children talking to stranger mainly are because they often see news about children being kidnapped or other crimes concerning children. However come to think of it, there are also cases whereby children are being kidnapped by people as close as their relatives. In opinion, I think that parents should allow children the freedom to talk to anyone they wanted, however parents should warn them not to talk to people who make them uncomfortable and must inform them if such cases happens. As a child, I do talk to strangers but I should be aware who we should talk or who we should avoid.
Furthermore, I do not think that adult should worry too much if a child does not understand your meaning. Be patient and try and explain it to them in a more suitable manner.
The medicine for Grief
This is an article about a doctor giving medical relief to remote villagers in Afghanistan and realised that there are many who wounds can't be treat medically.
Dr Tan Poh Tin is a paediatrician in Kuching, Malaysia. She has gone on a number of volunteer medical missions. This report is about her stay in Afghanistan on June 2002, seven months after the Taliban had been driven from power. The whole vilages had been reduced to rubble. Graves outnumbered the houses in some places, most marked only by neatly arranged stones. Dr Tan had seen many suffering people and " I am in grief" was what she heard from most of her patients. After several days, Dr Tan's interpreter got fed up with the patients saying pain all over. The interpeter, who was 19, had told her that his dream was to apply to the medical school in Kabul, but by the end of an intense week with her, he decided to study engineering instead. Dr Tan also saw a mother of seven boys who was grieved and lost a lot of weight during the Taliban regime.Her thrid son, 17, was stopped by the Taliban from sitting for the exams to universities in Turkey. Not daring to return to Afghanistan, he fled to Iran and lived there for two years as an illegal immigrant, facing much hardship. Hence, the mother, not knowing if he was alive or dead, was grieved. After the fall of the Talinban, her third son finally returned. His hands were calloused from doing hard labour in Iran. Dr Tan sensed his deep pain but he had an irrepressible hopefulness and an indomitable spirit that was determined to succeed, no matter what happened.
After reading it, I realised that there are so many people suffering in the country. I always thought that the only thing in the world that would make people feel grieved was homework, nagging, work, exams, money and grades. I finally know the defination of grief. Grief is not tired neither is it just being sad. I also realised that anything can happen in any time, with reasons or not. In this world, nothing is fair. There are people enjoying life and complaining on very single thing in life where people in other country were suffering. The 19 year old interpreter got fed up just because he was tired of repeating the same thing over and over again. But did he ever think why the patients said that? Have he ever felt the pain of losing your family in just one night? That behaviour was unforgivable.
What is power? Is power that important, so attractive that one can kill his people just to fight for power? Power made friends kill friends. Today he might be talking and laughing with you but you never know what your so called friend do to you the next day. No one is trustable. Nobody is somebody. A begger and became a king in a night's time.
I also realised that there are many ways to live when in grief. There are people who lived in grief for the rest of their life but there are also those who climbed up and continue walking. I am really impressed by those who continued walking. In this world, there is no specified medicine to cure one's grief. Perhaps the only cure is the enduring resilience and inexorable hopefulness. Continue to walk no matter what. Time will not wait for anyone. Either you climbed up and continue walking or you lie down on the floor waiting for the deathgod to take your souls and future. Never stop trying. Every step you take is hope. Who cares how many times you have fallen just kept walking, walk into the bright future.
Dr Tan Poh Tin is a paediatrician in Kuching, Malaysia. She has gone on a number of volunteer medical missions. This report is about her stay in Afghanistan on June 2002, seven months after the Taliban had been driven from power. The whole vilages had been reduced to rubble. Graves outnumbered the houses in some places, most marked only by neatly arranged stones. Dr Tan had seen many suffering people and " I am in grief" was what she heard from most of her patients. After several days, Dr Tan's interpreter got fed up with the patients saying pain all over. The interpeter, who was 19, had told her that his dream was to apply to the medical school in Kabul, but by the end of an intense week with her, he decided to study engineering instead. Dr Tan also saw a mother of seven boys who was grieved and lost a lot of weight during the Taliban regime.Her thrid son, 17, was stopped by the Taliban from sitting for the exams to universities in Turkey. Not daring to return to Afghanistan, he fled to Iran and lived there for two years as an illegal immigrant, facing much hardship. Hence, the mother, not knowing if he was alive or dead, was grieved. After the fall of the Talinban, her third son finally returned. His hands were calloused from doing hard labour in Iran. Dr Tan sensed his deep pain but he had an irrepressible hopefulness and an indomitable spirit that was determined to succeed, no matter what happened.
After reading it, I realised that there are so many people suffering in the country. I always thought that the only thing in the world that would make people feel grieved was homework, nagging, work, exams, money and grades. I finally know the defination of grief. Grief is not tired neither is it just being sad. I also realised that anything can happen in any time, with reasons or not. In this world, nothing is fair. There are people enjoying life and complaining on very single thing in life where people in other country were suffering. The 19 year old interpreter got fed up just because he was tired of repeating the same thing over and over again. But did he ever think why the patients said that? Have he ever felt the pain of losing your family in just one night? That behaviour was unforgivable.
What is power? Is power that important, so attractive that one can kill his people just to fight for power? Power made friends kill friends. Today he might be talking and laughing with you but you never know what your so called friend do to you the next day. No one is trustable. Nobody is somebody. A begger and became a king in a night's time.
I also realised that there are many ways to live when in grief. There are people who lived in grief for the rest of their life but there are also those who climbed up and continue walking. I am really impressed by those who continued walking. In this world, there is no specified medicine to cure one's grief. Perhaps the only cure is the enduring resilience and inexorable hopefulness. Continue to walk no matter what. Time will not wait for anyone. Either you climbed up and continue walking or you lie down on the floor waiting for the deathgod to take your souls and future. Never stop trying. Every step you take is hope. Who cares how many times you have fallen just kept walking, walk into the bright future.
Searching for Marita - May 08 Issue Pg 91-96
Title: Searching For Marita
Author: Daniel Rome Levine
Origin: May 08 Readers Digest Page 91 ~ 96
Basically, this story describes the "shadowy world of human trafficking and forced prostitution. A woman by the name of Susana Trimarco from Argentina set out to find her missing daughter. Witnesses saw her daughter being pushed into a car. Therefore, she suspect that her daughter was being forced into prostitution.
To find her daughter, she even resorted to unimaginable means - disguising as a prostitute and venturing into bars, hoping to know where her daughter was. Not only so, she even exhausted most of her savings, sold her house as well as Marita's plus two cars to pay for her investigation. It also strained her relationship with her husband - Daniel.
The bar owners and human traffickers would not take that lying down though ... Several of them attempted hit-and-runs so as to intimidate her and to silence her. However, instead of being intimidated, she was somewhat "spurred" by them and participated in the campaign for preventing human trafficking more actively. Many women who had their daughters kidnapped, went to Susana instead of going to the police. Susana responded to each one and did her best.
As a result, more that 200 girls who were forced into prostitution owe their freedom to Susana.
I feel that this was a very touching story that not only alert readers of the "shadowy world of human trafficking and forced prostitution", it also shows how noble a mother's love could be.
Furthermore, the story also shows a mother could go to any desperate measures, so as to save her kids. For instance, Susana even disguised as a prostitute and venture into bars so as to gather information about her daughter. Moreover, she had to risk her life as many human traffickers and pub owners were after her life; even the police refuse to help her as she was a powerless woman.
Personally, i feel that the girls that were forced into prostitution were very pitiful. They were separated from their parents unwillingly. Not only so, some, even many, were tortured by their "employers" as well as their customers. They were fed drugs and beaten severely to break their will. I hope that human traffickers would stop resorting to such methods to earn money as it seemed so cold-hearted and cruel to separate the girls away from their parents.
Done by: Ho Yue Long (Nate)
Author: Daniel Rome Levine
Origin: May 08 Readers Digest Page 91 ~ 96
Basically, this story describes the "shadowy world of human trafficking and forced prostitution. A woman by the name of Susana Trimarco from Argentina set out to find her missing daughter. Witnesses saw her daughter being pushed into a car. Therefore, she suspect that her daughter was being forced into prostitution.
To find her daughter, she even resorted to unimaginable means - disguising as a prostitute and venturing into bars, hoping to know where her daughter was. Not only so, she even exhausted most of her savings, sold her house as well as Marita's plus two cars to pay for her investigation. It also strained her relationship with her husband - Daniel.
The bar owners and human traffickers would not take that lying down though ... Several of them attempted hit-and-runs so as to intimidate her and to silence her. However, instead of being intimidated, she was somewhat "spurred" by them and participated in the campaign for preventing human trafficking more actively. Many women who had their daughters kidnapped, went to Susana instead of going to the police. Susana responded to each one and did her best.
As a result, more that 200 girls who were forced into prostitution owe their freedom to Susana.
I feel that this was a very touching story that not only alert readers of the "shadowy world of human trafficking and forced prostitution", it also shows how noble a mother's love could be.
Furthermore, the story also shows a mother could go to any desperate measures, so as to save her kids. For instance, Susana even disguised as a prostitute and venture into bars so as to gather information about her daughter. Moreover, she had to risk her life as many human traffickers and pub owners were after her life; even the police refuse to help her as she was a powerless woman.
Personally, i feel that the girls that were forced into prostitution were very pitiful. They were separated from their parents unwillingly. Not only so, some, even many, were tortured by their "employers" as well as their customers. They were fed drugs and beaten severely to break their will. I hope that human traffickers would stop resorting to such methods to earn money as it seemed so cold-hearted and cruel to separate the girls away from their parents.
Done by: Ho Yue Long (Nate)
Sunday, June 15, 2008
The Perks of Service
Title of article: The Perks of Service
Author: Lynn Rosellini
From: Reader’s Digest May 2008 issue, Page 19-21
Jason Araghi is a guy who opened a cafe for the soldiers. Firstly, I would like to comment on his bravery of opening the the cafe for the soldiers at the war zones. He had risked his life to allow those fellow comrades and soldiers to indulge those nice coffee that he had personally made for them. Personally, I would not risk my life to sell coffee at war zones, as my life will be endanger. Who knows that the next minute that there might be a bomb that just landed in front of the door and it explodes. Bloodshed in the war will not be missed out, collapse of infrastructure and pain in those soldiers' eyes shown are always present in the war. No another man would willing to risk his life, but only him, just because of a simple reasons that he had in his thought, it was no other than, allowing those soldiers to relax themselves at his store and also the love for cafe. It was these two reasons that allow him to continue to serve the soldiers at the war front. Although he knew the dangers in front of him plus he missed his wife and children dearly, he still did not wind up the business but instead continue on and allow those soldiers to have a comfortable area to relax.
Secondly, through the article, he did not even mention he was forced to go onto the war front to serve the soldiers when the American Commander had asked him. Therefore, he was willing to serve the soldiers as he understood the pain and suffer that the soldiers are facing. Perhaps he was once a soldier in training at the age of 19, he might be one of the soldiers having the thought that, "Wouldn't it be nice that there is a cafe after those gruesome training?"
Thirdly, as he promised the American Commander, he does it. He honoured his promise and also the soldiers will certainly be indulged in his specially mixed coffee and able to relax after a tough battle outside and before the next round starts, they are certainly refreshed. As long as you have the passion for certain stuffs, you are able to do it well and put in the utmost effort and whole heartily to accomplish it. I strongly believe that it is the passion of the coffee that keeps him continuing running the business. Passion and Honour will be the key word to allow one to persevere on even though that dangers lie ahead them.
In conclusion, through this article, there are a lot of moral values we could learn from Jason. I do not demand people to follow what he is doing but instead, learn from the values that he had shown to the world. There are many more moral values to be pointed out as the list continues on. Therefore, never stop learning even thought you are old or young. The society had given a lot to us, we should contribute back to it and definitely at here, i hope that he continues on his business and no harm should come to him as he is a kind man.
Author: Lynn Rosellini
From: Reader’s Digest May 2008 issue, Page 19-21
Jason Araghi is a guy who opened a cafe for the soldiers. Firstly, I would like to comment on his bravery of opening the the cafe for the soldiers at the war zones. He had risked his life to allow those fellow comrades and soldiers to indulge those nice coffee that he had personally made for them. Personally, I would not risk my life to sell coffee at war zones, as my life will be endanger. Who knows that the next minute that there might be a bomb that just landed in front of the door and it explodes. Bloodshed in the war will not be missed out, collapse of infrastructure and pain in those soldiers' eyes shown are always present in the war. No another man would willing to risk his life, but only him, just because of a simple reasons that he had in his thought, it was no other than, allowing those soldiers to relax themselves at his store and also the love for cafe. It was these two reasons that allow him to continue to serve the soldiers at the war front. Although he knew the dangers in front of him plus he missed his wife and children dearly, he still did not wind up the business but instead continue on and allow those soldiers to have a comfortable area to relax.
Secondly, through the article, he did not even mention he was forced to go onto the war front to serve the soldiers when the American Commander had asked him. Therefore, he was willing to serve the soldiers as he understood the pain and suffer that the soldiers are facing. Perhaps he was once a soldier in training at the age of 19, he might be one of the soldiers having the thought that, "Wouldn't it be nice that there is a cafe after those gruesome training?"
Thirdly, as he promised the American Commander, he does it. He honoured his promise and also the soldiers will certainly be indulged in his specially mixed coffee and able to relax after a tough battle outside and before the next round starts, they are certainly refreshed. As long as you have the passion for certain stuffs, you are able to do it well and put in the utmost effort and whole heartily to accomplish it. I strongly believe that it is the passion of the coffee that keeps him continuing running the business. Passion and Honour will be the key word to allow one to persevere on even though that dangers lie ahead them.
In conclusion, through this article, there are a lot of moral values we could learn from Jason. I do not demand people to follow what he is doing but instead, learn from the values that he had shown to the world. There are many more moral values to be pointed out as the list continues on. Therefore, never stop learning even thought you are old or young. The society had given a lot to us, we should contribute back to it and definitely at here, i hope that he continues on his business and no harm should come to him as he is a kind man.
Done By: Lynn Wong (28)
May 2008; Gut feeling
To someone that contracted cancer, Lynn Sherr is one strong woman. She already perceived that she might be contracted with cancer, due to the situation that happened to her departed husband. Her husband was also contracted with cancer. Unfortunately, he didn't manage to battle with the disease like how Lynn did. It was terrible for Lynn, to have her close relatives and friends losing their lives because of cancer. Although she was anguishing over the loss of loved ones, she didn't give up. Many others would have been devastating over the fact, and seal themselves in their own world, not willing to accept the fact. It's not simple to lose someone that you were really close to yet she stayed strong and continued her life as per normal.
When she finally found out the truth from her sister, she was acquiescence to the fact that she had diagnosed with colon cancer. Although it was already half-expected, due to her knowledge, she didn't expect it to be colon cancer. In spite of that, she wasn't flabbergasted or terrified. She wasn't pessimistic, she still joked about the colon, ‘I started signing my e-mails with a tiny punctuation mark:; that's “semi-colon.” Get it?” She was undaunted by the disease. She had chosen not to give up and still fight on, even asking friends and families to not worry for her. All she wanted was to be a normal person living a normal life and her determination and courage paid off after seven arduous months of chemotherapy. She underwent many problems like fatigue, fever, feeling nauseous. However, she didn't relinquish. It's a tough journey for her and her perseverance is worth commending. All of these reflected a determined spirit in her to live her life well despite all the sadness and pain that she had gone through.
Lynn mentioned that when she went for chemotherapy, there were men and women with and without hair, limbs or someone to talk to. No one complained; no one disturbed the peace. They were described as nice and patient. It is important for us to take a look at people around us and understand their situations. We have people that have conditions that are poles apart from ours. People in good physical shape should be appreciative and not taking things for granted. The perspective of cancer patients, whether dismal or not, is totally different from people that are in the pink. Much of our youth today are in danger of facing mild depression everytime they meet an adversary – but what are their troubles compared to Lynn Sherr? If they were to be put in her shoes, would they do the same? I believe everyone wants to be normal and illness-free. Cancer is a disease that can cause death. And up to this 21st century, many cancer patients’ lives have been lost. Even though she was given the wrong message at first, she still bravely faced the matter and approached the doctor about her fears, afraid as she may had been.
"Determination gives you the resolve to keep going in spite of the roadblocks that lay before you.", and it's true for Lynn's case.
Done by: Kaixin(12) :D
When she finally found out the truth from her sister, she was acquiescence to the fact that she had diagnosed with colon cancer. Although it was already half-expected, due to her knowledge, she didn't expect it to be colon cancer. In spite of that, she wasn't flabbergasted or terrified. She wasn't pessimistic, she still joked about the colon, ‘I started signing my e-mails with a tiny punctuation mark:; that's “semi-colon.” Get it?” She was undaunted by the disease. She had chosen not to give up and still fight on, even asking friends and families to not worry for her. All she wanted was to be a normal person living a normal life and her determination and courage paid off after seven arduous months of chemotherapy. She underwent many problems like fatigue, fever, feeling nauseous. However, she didn't relinquish. It's a tough journey for her and her perseverance is worth commending. All of these reflected a determined spirit in her to live her life well despite all the sadness and pain that she had gone through.
Lynn mentioned that when she went for chemotherapy, there were men and women with and without hair, limbs or someone to talk to. No one complained; no one disturbed the peace. They were described as nice and patient. It is important for us to take a look at people around us and understand their situations. We have people that have conditions that are poles apart from ours. People in good physical shape should be appreciative and not taking things for granted. The perspective of cancer patients, whether dismal or not, is totally different from people that are in the pink. Much of our youth today are in danger of facing mild depression everytime they meet an adversary – but what are their troubles compared to Lynn Sherr? If they were to be put in her shoes, would they do the same? I believe everyone wants to be normal and illness-free. Cancer is a disease that can cause death. And up to this 21st century, many cancer patients’ lives have been lost. Even though she was given the wrong message at first, she still bravely faced the matter and approached the doctor about her fears, afraid as she may had been.
"Determination gives you the resolve to keep going in spite of the roadblocks that lay before you.", and it's true for Lynn's case.
Done by: Kaixin(12) :D
Title of the article: The Rise of Cyber Bullying
Source: Reader Digest May Issue
Page: 115 – 119
Title of the reflection: Cyber bullying
Done By: Lin Zi Ying(17)
Advanced technology was introduced so as to improve people’s life and to make our work easier. But it is often being abused. When they are been abused, used with bad intentions or in the wrong place, troubles followed as well. Cyber Bullying is started because of the wide use of computer with internet access in the wrong way.
The option to stay anonymous when online was there to encourage those shy and timid people to speak up in the cyber world. But it became one of the advantages of bullying people online nowadays. Those intended bullies could do anything to the victims without revealing their real identity. The poor victim would have nowhere to find the bullies and seek no chance to react to the bullies.
Children and teenagers are the one who often suffer from this type of bullies. They usually could not do any thing to the bullies. They are still young and do not know the ways to protect themselves. Most choose to keep it with them, not willing to tell their parents or teachers for fear or embarrassment. As the fears and unhappy feelings accumulate over time, the children and teens are sure not able to take it. Most probably they would end their life like the example stated in the article. Both Ryan Halligan and Gail Jones were below 16 years old when they were suffering from cyber bullying. The two of them ended their life as they are unable to take the bullying.
Although cyber bullying is increasing in number, not much things were done to prevent it. After reading the article, I saw a few ways some countries established to solve cyber bullying. The US Congress passed a law making it a federal crime to”annoy abuse, threaten or harass” another person over the internet and the South Korea introduced “internet real-name system”.
Personally, I feel that the legislative action pass down in US states are not useful since it apply mainly to adults while in actual fact, most cyber bullies are teenagers. I think all country should access the same system as Korea, internet real-name system in order to protect the people against cyber bullying. It might not be really successful right now, but I believe it does help in cutting down the number of cyber bullying cases. At least, some of the bullies would stop their unreasonable acts since their real identity will be disclosed by the online portals if someone wants to sue them for libel or infringement or privacy.
After all, prevent cyber bullying and take legislative action is not something that can be done with one person working. It needs the whole world to participate and work together. Cyber world is not limited to one country only. It links people from every part of the world. Only when the entire world is working together, then there will be a solution to the rise of cyber bullying cases.
Source: Reader Digest May Issue
Page: 115 – 119
Title of the reflection: Cyber bullying
Done By: Lin Zi Ying(17)
Advanced technology was introduced so as to improve people’s life and to make our work easier. But it is often being abused. When they are been abused, used with bad intentions or in the wrong place, troubles followed as well. Cyber Bullying is started because of the wide use of computer with internet access in the wrong way.
The option to stay anonymous when online was there to encourage those shy and timid people to speak up in the cyber world. But it became one of the advantages of bullying people online nowadays. Those intended bullies could do anything to the victims without revealing their real identity. The poor victim would have nowhere to find the bullies and seek no chance to react to the bullies.
Children and teenagers are the one who often suffer from this type of bullies. They usually could not do any thing to the bullies. They are still young and do not know the ways to protect themselves. Most choose to keep it with them, not willing to tell their parents or teachers for fear or embarrassment. As the fears and unhappy feelings accumulate over time, the children and teens are sure not able to take it. Most probably they would end their life like the example stated in the article. Both Ryan Halligan and Gail Jones were below 16 years old when they were suffering from cyber bullying. The two of them ended their life as they are unable to take the bullying.
Although cyber bullying is increasing in number, not much things were done to prevent it. After reading the article, I saw a few ways some countries established to solve cyber bullying. The US Congress passed a law making it a federal crime to”annoy abuse, threaten or harass” another person over the internet and the South Korea introduced “internet real-name system”.
Personally, I feel that the legislative action pass down in US states are not useful since it apply mainly to adults while in actual fact, most cyber bullies are teenagers. I think all country should access the same system as Korea, internet real-name system in order to protect the people against cyber bullying. It might not be really successful right now, but I believe it does help in cutting down the number of cyber bullying cases. At least, some of the bullies would stop their unreasonable acts since their real identity will be disclosed by the online portals if someone wants to sue them for libel or infringement or privacy.
After all, prevent cyber bullying and take legislative action is not something that can be done with one person working. It needs the whole world to participate and work together. Cyber world is not limited to one country only. It links people from every part of the world. Only when the entire world is working together, then there will be a solution to the rise of cyber bullying cases.
Saturday, June 14, 2008
What do you do when the mother you love is no longer of Sound Mind ? ( June,2008 ) pg 65-71
This article about a family of five.The mother of three children was diagnosed with Alzheimer disease four-and-a-half years ago. upon an email received and a telephone call, the author, the eldest child of the family, knew she had to drop everything she was doing and to fly home. Her mum's condition was deteriorating daily and her Dad was exhausted from taking care of her Mum.
Due to the South African diaspora, it resulted in the siblings having to live world apart.Being the eldest child,the author had the most flexible time.Back home, the author saw for herself the seriousness of her mum's condition. This also led to the struggle in deciding weather to leave her mum in palliative care.After having left her mum in palliative care, she knew what are coming next could be her mum leaving them sooner rather than later.
After having read this story, i feel that the author was really brave. Even though she struggled while trying to make the best decision for her mum's condition, the author didn't try to deny the fact that her mum was sick.She accepted her mum's condition readily. Being sick, her mum could not do even the simplest thing on her own and even resulted in much embarrassment in the public. Despite all these, the author faced the situation and made decisions that could help. Many when faced with such a situation would not know what to do.Even though the author faced many problems while helping to take care of her mum, she did her best.
Some may feel that leaving your mum or dad in palliative care when they are sick is definitely not a acceptable behaviour. Even though i do agree to a small extend, but putting yourself in the author's shoe, having to leave your mum you loved in palliative care is definitely not an easy decision to make. I believe if anyone of you is given the choice, you definitely would not like to leave your mum in palliative care, but when the worse comes, you would definitely choose the decision that would ease your mum's pain and to improve her condition. The author's Dad who did not accept the decision of leaving his wife in palliative care, eventually did.This explains that they understood what was best for her mum,and perhaps leaving her mum in palliative care would give the author and her Dad enough space to breathe and cope with the situation. The author said, she did not regret making the decision of leaving her mum in palliative care.
Therefore only by treating your parents well and not only to regret when they leave you one day, would you have lived your life to the fullest. Decisions are mainly still decisions, but the way you choose and make your decision is after all, all that matters.
By Lau Wei Ying (13)
Due to the South African diaspora, it resulted in the siblings having to live world apart.Being the eldest child,the author had the most flexible time.Back home, the author saw for herself the seriousness of her mum's condition. This also led to the struggle in deciding weather to leave her mum in palliative care.After having left her mum in palliative care, she knew what are coming next could be her mum leaving them sooner rather than later.
After having read this story, i feel that the author was really brave. Even though she struggled while trying to make the best decision for her mum's condition, the author didn't try to deny the fact that her mum was sick.She accepted her mum's condition readily. Being sick, her mum could not do even the simplest thing on her own and even resulted in much embarrassment in the public. Despite all these, the author faced the situation and made decisions that could help. Many when faced with such a situation would not know what to do.Even though the author faced many problems while helping to take care of her mum, she did her best.
Some may feel that leaving your mum or dad in palliative care when they are sick is definitely not a acceptable behaviour. Even though i do agree to a small extend, but putting yourself in the author's shoe, having to leave your mum you loved in palliative care is definitely not an easy decision to make. I believe if anyone of you is given the choice, you definitely would not like to leave your mum in palliative care, but when the worse comes, you would definitely choose the decision that would ease your mum's pain and to improve her condition. The author's Dad who did not accept the decision of leaving his wife in palliative care, eventually did.This explains that they understood what was best for her mum,and perhaps leaving her mum in palliative care would give the author and her Dad enough space to breathe and cope with the situation. The author said, she did not regret making the decision of leaving her mum in palliative care.
Therefore only by treating your parents well and not only to regret when they leave you one day, would you have lived your life to the fullest. Decisions are mainly still decisions, but the way you choose and make your decision is after all, all that matters.
By Lau Wei Ying (13)
Running For His Life ; June Issue 2008
Ryan Farrington was born a normal kid until things started to change when he was about five or six. His legs did not function as well, bringing him pain and discomfort. Doctors found out that Ryan was suffering from a crippling disease. Often, a relapse would strike and Ryan would be in such a painful state that even walking on his own was difficult. When such a situation happens, Ryan would be sent to the hospital and doctors will put him on a morphine drip, knocking him out and deaden the pain. Little Ryan screams for his mum for help. As his mum came to his aid, Ryan was lying on the floor struggling in a pain attack. However, the doctors were helpless and could barely improve Ryan's condition but put him a morphine drop. Finally, specialists confirmed Ryan with a rare condition similar to Parkinson's disease - Dystonia. Facing the grim situation, Ryan had no cure for the dystonia he was suffering from. As he got older, the condition worsens, causing him frequent falls. At the same time, his jaws would lock and Ryan would barely be able to speak a word. As his condition got worse day by day, Ryan was left with one option, to numb his nerves which will cause him to be confined to a wheelchair afterwards. At a young age, Ryan was persistent about leading a normal life and he refused to use the wheelchair. However, the disease was relentless and sometimes Ryan would end up having to use the wheelchair.
Then, in year 2002, Ryan entered the rehabilitation centre, now 13. He first mastered the balance board, then holding the rails of a treadmill, and is even to jog after months of trying.
Frank Gardner, a coach for boys and girls in the introductory athletics at Birmingham athletics club. He noticed Ryan, then 15, and was impressed with his raw talent and willingness to practice. Even though he lacked the technique, but the was fast. Over the years, Ryan learnt to manage his pain, to cover and hide the side effects of dystonia. Ryan's persistency saved his life. He is now one of Britain's top ten sprinter for his age group. Taking part in many competitions, Ryan now runs like a champion, believing that he the disease was not an obstacle to his running career and is confident in achieving more medals!
I feel that Ryan's story has amazed me greatly. Facing with what's unpredictable ahead of him, Ryan does not give up in life. His actions, words and belief shows the strong will and resilience within him. As a young boy, yet still optimistic about his life, it is not an simple as said. In today's world, there are many people who face situations like Ryan, some even whose condition are less major compared to Ryan's, fail to see the meaning of life. Even adults, who give up in life because they are sick. However, Ryan is determined to carry on and put aside the setbacks. If Ryan was able to do it, why can't others do the same?
I personally feel that Ryan is very brave and his strong-headedness in whatever he does or wants has led him to his success. If he had given in the doctor's suggestion, probably he would just be an ordinary patient feeding on medicine and being put on drip every now and then. Perhaps he would be lying in the hospital bed right now, waiting for his time to go. Also, From this article, Ryan's parents had too contributed to Ryan's success today. His father and uncles helped to spend time playing with Ryan, without treating him differently. They played rough-and-tumble game of football, and constantly urge him to be better, instilling in Ryan's mind that he can be the same as every kid. It helps Ryan delete the thought that football and other sport activities was what he cannot do. His mum, Lisa, did not stop her son from what he wants, giving him the support and trust in what he wants to do. It was also his mum, who was constantly there to help him during his falls. Without his mum, no one would be able to be there to save him if he fell from the stirs during a pain attack.
Of course, Samantha, the physiotherapist, and his coach Frank Gardner, had been his pillar of support too. Samantha, with her urging and pushing to try the impossible during Ryan's therapy session helped Ryan to discover that he was able to run and run normally. Frank exposed Ryan to the world and nurtured him to what he is today.
In conclusion, we should never give up in what we do even if you physical body does not allow you to, for nothing is impossible, in Ryan's case. I think that Ryan is a very good role model to the society, to prove that determination always pays off. We should learn Ryan's qualities and apply to our daily life. If a sick can do it, why not us, abled people? So after knowing about Ryan, let us all strive to be better each day, and always remember the people around us!
Then, in year 2002, Ryan entered the rehabilitation centre, now 13. He first mastered the balance board, then holding the rails of a treadmill, and is even to jog after months of trying.
Frank Gardner, a coach for boys and girls in the introductory athletics at Birmingham athletics club. He noticed Ryan, then 15, and was impressed with his raw talent and willingness to practice. Even though he lacked the technique, but the was fast. Over the years, Ryan learnt to manage his pain, to cover and hide the side effects of dystonia. Ryan's persistency saved his life. He is now one of Britain's top ten sprinter for his age group. Taking part in many competitions, Ryan now runs like a champion, believing that he the disease was not an obstacle to his running career and is confident in achieving more medals!
I feel that Ryan's story has amazed me greatly. Facing with what's unpredictable ahead of him, Ryan does not give up in life. His actions, words and belief shows the strong will and resilience within him. As a young boy, yet still optimistic about his life, it is not an simple as said. In today's world, there are many people who face situations like Ryan, some even whose condition are less major compared to Ryan's, fail to see the meaning of life. Even adults, who give up in life because they are sick. However, Ryan is determined to carry on and put aside the setbacks. If Ryan was able to do it, why can't others do the same?
I personally feel that Ryan is very brave and his strong-headedness in whatever he does or wants has led him to his success. If he had given in the doctor's suggestion, probably he would just be an ordinary patient feeding on medicine and being put on drip every now and then. Perhaps he would be lying in the hospital bed right now, waiting for his time to go. Also, From this article, Ryan's parents had too contributed to Ryan's success today. His father and uncles helped to spend time playing with Ryan, without treating him differently. They played rough-and-tumble game of football, and constantly urge him to be better, instilling in Ryan's mind that he can be the same as every kid. It helps Ryan delete the thought that football and other sport activities was what he cannot do. His mum, Lisa, did not stop her son from what he wants, giving him the support and trust in what he wants to do. It was also his mum, who was constantly there to help him during his falls. Without his mum, no one would be able to be there to save him if he fell from the stirs during a pain attack.
Of course, Samantha, the physiotherapist, and his coach Frank Gardner, had been his pillar of support too. Samantha, with her urging and pushing to try the impossible during Ryan's therapy session helped Ryan to discover that he was able to run and run normally. Frank exposed Ryan to the world and nurtured him to what he is today.
In conclusion, we should never give up in what we do even if you physical body does not allow you to, for nothing is impossible, in Ryan's case. I think that Ryan is a very good role model to the society, to prove that determination always pays off. We should learn Ryan's qualities and apply to our daily life. If a sick can do it, why not us, abled people? So after knowing about Ryan, let us all strive to be better each day, and always remember the people around us!
GUT FEELING, MAY 2008[Page 50-55] :
In this article that I had chosen, the female protagonist, Lynn Sheer had an instinct about the pain in her body. She was not convinced when the doctor examined her said that it was appendicitis. She knew it was something else, probably cancer. Her husband, Larry was a victim of cancer too. When she was pushed out from the operation room, it was then her worries were further confirmed. The answer to her question came, it was colon cancer. She was unfamiliar with colon cancer, and was amazed that it was the most commonly diagnosed cancer. After that she underwent chemotherapy, it was tough for her, she suffered from the side-effects. She endured it all for seven months and finally survived.
After reading Lynn Sheer’s story, I was in awe. Despite her age at 55, she had portrayed herself as a fighter, with such a strong fighting spirit. She did not throw in the towel under any circumstances. She held on, stayed on and battled it out with cancer which was seemed as a killer. Her determination and the will in her were both worth the praise. She did not give up, especially during the chemotherapy. As we know, the toughest part of the cancer treatment is the chemotherapy, all the radiation could cause much destruction to one’s body, resulting in the deteriorating of one’s health. For example, Lynn Sheer vomited, had diarrhea, fever and chills. All of these clung on tight to her till the very end of it. The pain that had inflicted on her body, that had tormented her, was all faced by her bravely. She was undeterred and undaunted. She was ready for the challenges ahead. She had endured it, with courage and patience, and managed to survive this ordeal.
I feel that Lynn Sheer’s story is very inspiring and moving, at such ah old age, she was still able to combat her cancer with much bravery. It would be too much for her to bear, but she took up the challenge nevertheless. Although her husband died of cancer, she was not affected by it. She wanted to be considered normal again. She wanted everything to be over. It was all these that made her fight on. Besides this, I also feel that Lynn Sheer is a very good living example for all to learn from. She had shown us that, even someone at such an age could fight on with cancer, why could not we be like her? Why must we give up easily when we faced difficulties? Her story motivated me and spurred me on. She had made me view my life from a different perspective, a different angle. She had me looked up to her as a perfect role model, with much respect.
By Tze Hui Yi[26] 3G
In this article that I had chosen, the female protagonist, Lynn Sheer had an instinct about the pain in her body. She was not convinced when the doctor examined her said that it was appendicitis. She knew it was something else, probably cancer. Her husband, Larry was a victim of cancer too. When she was pushed out from the operation room, it was then her worries were further confirmed. The answer to her question came, it was colon cancer. She was unfamiliar with colon cancer, and was amazed that it was the most commonly diagnosed cancer. After that she underwent chemotherapy, it was tough for her, she suffered from the side-effects. She endured it all for seven months and finally survived.
After reading Lynn Sheer’s story, I was in awe. Despite her age at 55, she had portrayed herself as a fighter, with such a strong fighting spirit. She did not throw in the towel under any circumstances. She held on, stayed on and battled it out with cancer which was seemed as a killer. Her determination and the will in her were both worth the praise. She did not give up, especially during the chemotherapy. As we know, the toughest part of the cancer treatment is the chemotherapy, all the radiation could cause much destruction to one’s body, resulting in the deteriorating of one’s health. For example, Lynn Sheer vomited, had diarrhea, fever and chills. All of these clung on tight to her till the very end of it. The pain that had inflicted on her body, that had tormented her, was all faced by her bravely. She was undeterred and undaunted. She was ready for the challenges ahead. She had endured it, with courage and patience, and managed to survive this ordeal.
I feel that Lynn Sheer’s story is very inspiring and moving, at such ah old age, she was still able to combat her cancer with much bravery. It would be too much for her to bear, but she took up the challenge nevertheless. Although her husband died of cancer, she was not affected by it. She wanted to be considered normal again. She wanted everything to be over. It was all these that made her fight on. Besides this, I also feel that Lynn Sheer is a very good living example for all to learn from. She had shown us that, even someone at such an age could fight on with cancer, why could not we be like her? Why must we give up easily when we faced difficulties? Her story motivated me and spurred me on. She had made me view my life from a different perspective, a different angle. She had me looked up to her as a perfect role model, with much respect.
By Tze Hui Yi[26] 3G
Words to Inspire ( June 2008 , Page 52 - 57 )
This article explains how hard communication is between adults and young children. As young children are still in the period of growing up , young brains are still developing. Children thus could not be expected to process words , context and sarcasm the same way similar to an adult's brain.
In this article , they used the example of the communication between CJ and his aunt where he had mistaken his aunt's word of encouragement , thinking that his aunt has been blaming him that he had not do enough for his team , causing his basketball team to lose in the tournament.
But in actual fact , CJ's aunt is actually praising him and telling him that their team would do even better if he is able to coach his team mates.
I do agree it is very hard to communicate with adults. Personally , I do have communication problems with my parents and I often quarrel with them because of it. We teens do not understand what adults are thinking and what they actually want us to do. Similarly , adults do not understand what we are thinking and what we actually wishes them to do. Thus eventually leading to a communication error between adults and teens.
It is always important to communicate frequently with your parents , so that communication error would no longer be in the way to getting to know your parents better and what they are actually thinking. Parent's support for their children is their children only source of motivation for them to move on and study even harder. If parents and children are quarreling and are on bad terms due to communication error , what is there to support the children and giving them the strength to move on ?
I am a teen myself , thus I understand how important it is and how effective it is with your parents support. I often lacks the support parents have for me , blaming them that they do not understand me well. But the fact is , I do not understand them well too. I really hope I can spend more time with my parents , telling them how I feel and hoping that they will really understand.
Teens nowadays have been telling everyone that friends are more important than their family because friends understand them more than their family does. I do understand how they actually feel because your friends are of the same age as you , at this growing stage.As mentioned , adults and children have communication problems and I am sure most of your friends feel that they do have communication problems with their parents too , thus they understand fully how you actually feel. But do bare in mind , parents are the ones that gave birth to you and families are the one who have provided you with everything you need ever since you were born. Your family members are the ones that will always be there for you when you needed someone to help you in times of crisis. From elementary to high schools , friends and classmates have been changing and you might no longer know them when you have grown up for you will get to know more friends in life. But differently , family members will not change and they will guide you through your life , helping you and be there for you when you need them. It is really important to communicate well with your family !
Spend more time with your parents , let them know how you feel and understand how they feel. No doubt , you will feel better and happier. Communication error is not a permanent problem. Problems are being created , hence it can be solved too. Try communicating well with your parents now , before it is too late ! Parents support are always the most important source of motivation for you to move on !
Done by sophie tay ( 25 )
In this article , they used the example of the communication between CJ and his aunt where he had mistaken his aunt's word of encouragement , thinking that his aunt has been blaming him that he had not do enough for his team , causing his basketball team to lose in the tournament.
But in actual fact , CJ's aunt is actually praising him and telling him that their team would do even better if he is able to coach his team mates.
I do agree it is very hard to communicate with adults. Personally , I do have communication problems with my parents and I often quarrel with them because of it. We teens do not understand what adults are thinking and what they actually want us to do. Similarly , adults do not understand what we are thinking and what we actually wishes them to do. Thus eventually leading to a communication error between adults and teens.
It is always important to communicate frequently with your parents , so that communication error would no longer be in the way to getting to know your parents better and what they are actually thinking. Parent's support for their children is their children only source of motivation for them to move on and study even harder. If parents and children are quarreling and are on bad terms due to communication error , what is there to support the children and giving them the strength to move on ?
I am a teen myself , thus I understand how important it is and how effective it is with your parents support. I often lacks the support parents have for me , blaming them that they do not understand me well. But the fact is , I do not understand them well too. I really hope I can spend more time with my parents , telling them how I feel and hoping that they will really understand.
Teens nowadays have been telling everyone that friends are more important than their family because friends understand them more than their family does. I do understand how they actually feel because your friends are of the same age as you , at this growing stage.As mentioned , adults and children have communication problems and I am sure most of your friends feel that they do have communication problems with their parents too , thus they understand fully how you actually feel. But do bare in mind , parents are the ones that gave birth to you and families are the one who have provided you with everything you need ever since you were born. Your family members are the ones that will always be there for you when you needed someone to help you in times of crisis. From elementary to high schools , friends and classmates have been changing and you might no longer know them when you have grown up for you will get to know more friends in life. But differently , family members will not change and they will guide you through your life , helping you and be there for you when you need them. It is really important to communicate well with your family !
Spend more time with your parents , let them know how you feel and understand how they feel. No doubt , you will feel better and happier. Communication error is not a permanent problem. Problems are being created , hence it can be solved too. Try communicating well with your parents now , before it is too late ! Parents support are always the most important source of motivation for you to move on !
Done by sophie tay ( 25 )
Running For His Life; JUNE ISSUE
This article features a youth, Ryan Farrington. He suffers from dystonia. It was a rare condition similar to Parkinson's disease. He would suffer from frequent pain attacks and violent spasms. His dystonia was severe and it has affected much if its body. There was no cure and the older he got, the worse it became. The spasms became so frequent that he even had his own bed in the hospital. The doctors could do little more than put Ryan on a morphine drip and deaden the pain. Over the years, he also faced difficulties where he had to face the fact that his condition is deteriorating. He had to make difficult decisions at the tender age of nine. He was forced to make a decision of whether he could set himself free from the pains that he was suffering from now but with the condition of losing the ability to walk. It was the last resort. Ryan has been treated differently because of his illness, which he did want to. He merely wanted to be a normal kid. However, now if he had chosen to be released from sufferings he would be deemed as disabled who he did not want to. Thus he refused to take up the treatment. But this way he would still have to suffer from those spasms.
The disease was relentless that would suddenly flare up and cripple him. He then entered the rehabilitation clinic. He practiced hard there and was then even capable of jogging even though he walks with a slight limp. He practiced very hard and he could even compete with the other athletics. He won many competitions. He is now one of Britain’s top ten sprinters for his age group. However, after every race he would need a lot of rest. There are still times when he cannot get out of bed. He has no idea how long he can keep competing but he has never thought of giving up.
I feel that Ryan is really brave and persistent in what he wants. He has displayed resilience. He could have chosen the route to inject painkillers into his spine and free him from all those pain that he was undergoing. However, he stuck to his principle of wanting to be treated like a normal child. Ryan did not give up on himself because of this disease. Instead, he has given him even more motivation to do his best for every race. He never thought of giving up. His achievements were remarkable, as he has gone from a wheelchair to the running track. This process was never easy. However, Ryan has managed to overcome any obstacles that came into his way. His persistence has paid off when he managed to run like the other normal athletics and maybe even faster than them. His achievements were amazing. No one would have ever thought that he had the capability to come this far enough. His treasures what he has? He participates in many competitions. As he never knows, what his future would behold for him.
He believes strongly in himself. I think that this is what most of us are lacking from. If we had that kind of belief that Ryan had in himself, we would not have thought of giving up then. Everyone would be facing challenges and setbacks in their life. No one’s life is always smooth sailing. Being able to learn from mistakes and not committing it again is of utmost importance. Facing setbacks is parts and parcel of our lives. It is something that we should learn from. In comparison with the setbacks that Ryan has faced in his life, ours are nothing. We should not be giving up after a small setback. Setbacks allow us to grow and develop.
If Ryan had the confidence to move on with life and the spirit to do his best, why we cannot just be doing the same? This has also made me realize the importance of our family. They are the ones that stand by you no matter that state you are in. They would always be there to cheer you on and support you. Home is the safe harbor that we can always return to take a rest. We should be treasure our life and family more. Taking Ryan as an example, he does know when his disease might turn for the worse that might lead him to not be able to run anymore. Thus, he is running for his life and competing against time. We are here fit and healthy. However, we are squandering our time and wasting them on games and television. Why not spend the time on pursuing our dreams? In conclusion, we should always treasure what we have and not to take them for granted. We never know what we might just lose at the next moment.
Doneby: IsellaLim(:(11)
The disease was relentless that would suddenly flare up and cripple him. He then entered the rehabilitation clinic. He practiced hard there and was then even capable of jogging even though he walks with a slight limp. He practiced very hard and he could even compete with the other athletics. He won many competitions. He is now one of Britain’s top ten sprinters for his age group. However, after every race he would need a lot of rest. There are still times when he cannot get out of bed. He has no idea how long he can keep competing but he has never thought of giving up.
I feel that Ryan is really brave and persistent in what he wants. He has displayed resilience. He could have chosen the route to inject painkillers into his spine and free him from all those pain that he was undergoing. However, he stuck to his principle of wanting to be treated like a normal child. Ryan did not give up on himself because of this disease. Instead, he has given him even more motivation to do his best for every race. He never thought of giving up. His achievements were remarkable, as he has gone from a wheelchair to the running track. This process was never easy. However, Ryan has managed to overcome any obstacles that came into his way. His persistence has paid off when he managed to run like the other normal athletics and maybe even faster than them. His achievements were amazing. No one would have ever thought that he had the capability to come this far enough. His treasures what he has? He participates in many competitions. As he never knows, what his future would behold for him.
He believes strongly in himself. I think that this is what most of us are lacking from. If we had that kind of belief that Ryan had in himself, we would not have thought of giving up then. Everyone would be facing challenges and setbacks in their life. No one’s life is always smooth sailing. Being able to learn from mistakes and not committing it again is of utmost importance. Facing setbacks is parts and parcel of our lives. It is something that we should learn from. In comparison with the setbacks that Ryan has faced in his life, ours are nothing. We should not be giving up after a small setback. Setbacks allow us to grow and develop.
If Ryan had the confidence to move on with life and the spirit to do his best, why we cannot just be doing the same? This has also made me realize the importance of our family. They are the ones that stand by you no matter that state you are in. They would always be there to cheer you on and support you. Home is the safe harbor that we can always return to take a rest. We should be treasure our life and family more. Taking Ryan as an example, he does know when his disease might turn for the worse that might lead him to not be able to run anymore. Thus, he is running for his life and competing against time. We are here fit and healthy. However, we are squandering our time and wasting them on games and television. Why not spend the time on pursuing our dreams? In conclusion, we should always treasure what we have and not to take them for granted. We never know what we might just lose at the next moment.
Doneby: IsellaLim(:(11)
Friday, June 13, 2008
Running for his life. (June Issue)
The pain that a five-year-old child experience, no one would know except the child himself, Ryan Farrington. Falling onto the floor screaming and shouting, falling down the stairs, twisting and turning on the floor. When Ryan's disease, dystonia, occurs, these would happen to him and his terrified mother, Lisa would send him to the hospital. What the doctors at the hospital could only do was to put Ryan on a morphine drip.
Ryan's dystonia was severe and affected much of his body. As he grew older, it got worse. He would regularly fell down the stairs at home, collapse as his left leg go into convulsions.
Through this, I think that Ryan was living a life that no one would want to. If I were Ryan, I would blame myself for bringing all these troubles on my parents as they would be very tired taking care of such a child.
However, Ryan started running and going for competitions. This is actually quite challenging for Ryan. He would need to take his medicine regularly and stop if he thinks that a dystonia attack. From him, I can see the determination and the will power that is in him. No matter how many times he had the dystonia attacks, he would never give up on running. I think that we are fortunate as we do not need to suffer the excruciating pain that Ryan needs to go through.
These days, teenagers and children are getting more and more pampered. hence, many would cry even at the slightest pain or give up easily. We should learn from Ryan, to be strong and determined and not to give up easily. We should try our very best in completing anything. After completing it, we should ask ourselves, did we really try our best?
I really hope that Ryan could complete more races and survive for a long time. I also hope that Ryan can participate in the London Summer Olympics in 2012.
Ryan's dystonia was severe and affected much of his body. As he grew older, it got worse. He would regularly fell down the stairs at home, collapse as his left leg go into convulsions.
Through this, I think that Ryan was living a life that no one would want to. If I were Ryan, I would blame myself for bringing all these troubles on my parents as they would be very tired taking care of such a child.
However, Ryan started running and going for competitions. This is actually quite challenging for Ryan. He would need to take his medicine regularly and stop if he thinks that a dystonia attack. From him, I can see the determination and the will power that is in him. No matter how many times he had the dystonia attacks, he would never give up on running. I think that we are fortunate as we do not need to suffer the excruciating pain that Ryan needs to go through.
These days, teenagers and children are getting more and more pampered. hence, many would cry even at the slightest pain or give up easily. We should learn from Ryan, to be strong and determined and not to give up easily. We should try our very best in completing anything. After completing it, we should ask ourselves, did we really try our best?
I really hope that Ryan could complete more races and survive for a long time. I also hope that Ryan can participate in the London Summer Olympics in 2012.
Thursday, June 12, 2008
RUNNING FOR HIS LIFE :RYAN FARRINGTON. JUNE ISSUE
Self-Determination, having the will and focus on achieving something regardless of hindrances. From this article, I can clearly see the firm determination Ryan have.He is always fighting for his time to live despite the pain he had to endure everyday.
Ryan Farrington, who was diagnosed with dystonia ,a rare condition similar to Parkinson's diseases, Ryan's dystonia was severe. It affected much of his body, including his left leg, back, hands and even his face. There was no cure.He had to endured pain like strong electric shock everyday. However, he never give up even after the doctor told him that the only option was to numb his nerve which eventually led him to crippled.Eventually, with the help of Samantha, a hospital physiotherapist, Ryan found his talent as a sprinter.
I found that this is truly an inspiring story.The efforts Ryan put in had led him to overcome the barriers ahead of him. I could say that I was totally impressed by Ryan's spirits .He always do his best in everything , for example running. Ryan gets tired easily due to his illness but he was always willing to practice no matter how exhausted he was.Furthermore, as he wanted to be treated normally, he covered up all his pain and hide the side effects of the illness.I believed that this is very hard for anyone.
In addition, I can see how seriously Ryan takes his life.He always had to be in a rush to get everything done because he doesn't know what will happen tomorrow .Due to his illness ,I think Ryan seems to understand how lives is so unpredictable and precious. I seriously hope that everyone can have the same attitude of living as Ryan. After reading this article, I learnt a major lesson ."If one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams and endeavors to live the life which he wanted, he will definitely meet with a success in unexpected common hours."
Moreover, I also realised the importance of our friends and families.This is because family and friends always happen to be the most important people for someone who is in times of need.The understanding, support, sincerity and love will certainly help in getting one through the whole ordeal. Lets take Ryan for example, without Samantha and Lisa encouraging him , i do not think that he will be able to improve so quickly in just 2 months.
Furthermore,without his father's motivation ,"No one is going to give you a break , Ryan you have to try that much harder, be that much better" , i think Ryan might be still lieing on the bed waiting for medicine to cure which is an impoosible news.
Lastly, I would like to say "if Ryan Farrington as a patient can make the impossible possible, why couldn't we ?" Thus, let us all create miracle in our lives too!
hUiru 9
THE RISE OF CYBERBULLYINGPAGE 115-120
From the article ,bullying is no longer child's play anymore. Cyber-bully can cause more harm then physical bully.Due to the improvement and advancment in technology, bullies tend to bully many others through the net. A defect of technology nowadays.
What is Cyber-bully? It is a deliberate, repeated, and hostile act by an individual or group, that is intended to harm others.In short ,a cowardy act. Many tend to pose themselves as anonymous people,prank calling the victims continuosly. Others chose to send threatful messages, post embrassing photos of victims on the net, or sexual remarks. The bully may prank the victim for pure fun , posing as someone else and engaging in conversation with the victims through the net. When the victims expose their secrets, not only does the bully post it for others to view, but also let others make fun of the victim.
What are the consequences of cyber-bullying? Cyber-bullies will defame victims through untrue facts and personal information. These can cause the victims to be overstress, as they must cope with the untrue rumours. Repeated anonymous calls or threatful messages can caused victims to be overly suspicious of thier surroundings. Repeated harrassment can caused the victims to have lack of sleep and loss of appetite. The victims of bullying tend to be seperated from their surroundings. Demoralising forms of bullying sent to the victims will have negative impact on the victims. These may include loss of interest in their usual activities, deproving accadimically, depression. These symtons may lead to the victims commiting suicide.
The act of the bullies will cause the victims to be scarred for life. Maybe for primary reasons,it is for pure fun. But when things go overboard, no one can undo what is done. Everyone deserved to be loved and cared for, such act could be deemed cruel and unfair. Defaming others, spreading untruth personal secrets, not only will hurt the victims,it could cause them to lose their friends and family due to the untruth secrets. When one is bullyied, a simple note of apology is not enough to cover for the permanent scar left of the victims for life. What if the prank cause the victim to take his own life? How is the bully going to repay for his sins? Lastly, if the bullies are part the victim's love one, the negative impact on the victim would be greater then those of ordinary bullying cases. The victims will feel even helpless , knowing that the ones destroying his life are the people they love and cared for.
But i belive that cyber-bully cases can be reduced or even avoided. Nobody should expose too much personal information to others through the net. Nobody should trust anyoe through the net. Nobody should think that they can fall in love through the net, in the end they might hurt themselves. Nobody should believe anonymous news. If anyone feels pressurised from what anyone have done to he/she, he/she should report or share wih their close ones.
Bullys should also think tiwce before acting, they must consider if they can bear the consequeces.They should also be reminded that they have no rights to take away someone personal lives or lifes.Even adults can go insane due to cbyer-bullying, so it will be even worst for young teenagers.
Lastly, for not letting cyber-bullying to happen to you take precautions. Like the photo scandals around the world, it happen due to a leak of personal photos or information to the net. Hence to avoid getting hurt, first everyone should learn to protect themselves. To those who are cyber-bullies , stop the act. I believe no one will want to hurt others, and I believe no one want to live in sorrow and regret for the rest of their life because of some juvenile act they commited.
BY HWEEJOO [21] hello people i rock!
What is Cyber-bully? It is a deliberate, repeated, and hostile act by an individual or group, that is intended to harm others.In short ,a cowardy act. Many tend to pose themselves as anonymous people,prank calling the victims continuosly. Others chose to send threatful messages, post embrassing photos of victims on the net, or sexual remarks. The bully may prank the victim for pure fun , posing as someone else and engaging in conversation with the victims through the net. When the victims expose their secrets, not only does the bully post it for others to view, but also let others make fun of the victim.
What are the consequences of cyber-bullying? Cyber-bullies will defame victims through untrue facts and personal information. These can cause the victims to be overstress, as they must cope with the untrue rumours. Repeated anonymous calls or threatful messages can caused victims to be overly suspicious of thier surroundings. Repeated harrassment can caused the victims to have lack of sleep and loss of appetite. The victims of bullying tend to be seperated from their surroundings. Demoralising forms of bullying sent to the victims will have negative impact on the victims. These may include loss of interest in their usual activities, deproving accadimically, depression. These symtons may lead to the victims commiting suicide.
The act of the bullies will cause the victims to be scarred for life. Maybe for primary reasons,it is for pure fun. But when things go overboard, no one can undo what is done. Everyone deserved to be loved and cared for, such act could be deemed cruel and unfair. Defaming others, spreading untruth personal secrets, not only will hurt the victims,it could cause them to lose their friends and family due to the untruth secrets. When one is bullyied, a simple note of apology is not enough to cover for the permanent scar left of the victims for life. What if the prank cause the victim to take his own life? How is the bully going to repay for his sins? Lastly, if the bullies are part the victim's love one, the negative impact on the victim would be greater then those of ordinary bullying cases. The victims will feel even helpless , knowing that the ones destroying his life are the people they love and cared for.
But i belive that cyber-bully cases can be reduced or even avoided. Nobody should expose too much personal information to others through the net. Nobody should trust anyoe through the net. Nobody should think that they can fall in love through the net, in the end they might hurt themselves. Nobody should believe anonymous news. If anyone feels pressurised from what anyone have done to he/she, he/she should report or share wih their close ones.
Bullys should also think tiwce before acting, they must consider if they can bear the consequeces.They should also be reminded that they have no rights to take away someone personal lives or lifes.Even adults can go insane due to cbyer-bullying, so it will be even worst for young teenagers.
Lastly, for not letting cyber-bullying to happen to you take precautions. Like the photo scandals around the world, it happen due to a leak of personal photos or information to the net. Hence to avoid getting hurt, first everyone should learn to protect themselves. To those who are cyber-bullies , stop the act. I believe no one will want to hurt others, and I believe no one want to live in sorrow and regret for the rest of their life because of some juvenile act they commited.
BY HWEEJOO [21] hello people i rock!
Monday, June 9, 2008
Carbon Offsetting: The Myths, The Truth (May 2008 edition, pg 98-101)
Featured in this article is an in-depth inquiry into the topic and controversies of carbon offsetting. In short, carbon offsetting are voluntary actions taken by individuals and organisations as part of their efforts to offset their own carbon emissions and to contribute to environmental protection through various means such as taking part in green projects, forestation, monetary donations, etc. This article focuses mainly on the trading of carbon offsets, giving us a better view regarding the legitimacy and attitudes involving the commercialisation of carbon offsetting and at the same time, offer readers information and alternatives to contribute to the cause sensibly.
In recent years, with environmental-related problems and disasters getting more evident than ever, in addition to all the hype that surround global environmental issues, many people have, or are beginning to realize the detrimental impacts that environmental woes can have on us, and on our lives. Greenhouse effect, Global warming, rampant deforestation …… all these pressing environmental issues are finally given much-needed publicity and attention worldwide after being ignored and disregarded for decades, but these are definitely not enough if we intend to salvage the situation.
Amid rising temperatures and melting ice glaciers, more and more people are having first-hand experience of the negative effects of environmental problems, be it the warmer temperatures worldwide, or extreme weather conditions which results from it. All these have highlighted to the masses on the urgent and desperate need to take action, for the sake of protecting our earth, our homeland, and hopefully, ourselves.
In my opinion, I believe that every human being has to take up responsibility in an attempt to halt the further destruction of our planet as a result of our actions. No part is too small to play, if each and every one of us are united in our stand, we will definitely be able to at the very least, contribute to environmental protection through our part, even though it may be as minor as switching off electrical appliances which are not in use.
Carbon offsetting is an innovative initiative which was initially meant to raise awareness for taking up responsibility for our carbon emissions and to provide people with opportunities to contribute to environmental protection. The original blueprint and its initial aims are excellent ideas worth encouraging and supporting, however, due to commercialisation, carbon offsetting has became yet another form of marketing tool, capable of generating millions in the name of environmental protection.
As mentioned in the article, buying or trading carbon offsets may assuage one’s guilt for contributing to carbon emissions which are pushing our fragile earth towards the brink of destruction. Furthermore, we are also providing monetary support to the cause of environmental protection and conservation through our deals. Having painted such a rosy picture however, how are we going to prove and assure for ourselves that the truth is what we thought to be? Are we really contributing sensibly and significantly? Many questions regarding carbon offsetting, their transparency, legitimacy, dealings and ethics among many other, still remain unanswered, casting a cloud of controversy over this “green” strategy., most people do not have any idea whether their dealings are put to good use or how operators manage or systemize the processes, most are just glad to add to the influx of "green" profits garnered from carbon offset sales worldwide in exchange for the guilt-free label.
Every one of us has to show more responsibility and concern for our environment. It is indeed dismaying to know that not every individual is committed to the cause and our efforts are still, sadly, too weak and insignificant if we were to simply compare the rate of our offsets to our emissions. A tree needs thirty years to offset the carbon emission produced by a car in 4 hours.
Stumped we may be, but we must not allow these to deter us from playing our part. Engaging in inefficient carbon offset trading may not be beneficial to our environment and wallets after all, so it is high time that we end all these superficial and insignificant acts, and make concrete efforts to protect our environment, starting from small but sincere actions such as substituting air-conditioners for fans. Our small but sincere efforts will be appreciated and at least, there is transparency, knowing the way we offset and going green is really making a difference.
Prevention is better than cure; our earth is already battered, having born the brunt of our environmental woes, and most of us have had first-hand experience on the negative impacts of the negligence of environment protection. Let us not wait for the next catastrophe to happen before we scramble to take action, by then, it will be too late. Therefore, we have to do something soon, in fact, we must, for this is not charity, but a desperate attempt to save the lives of our earth, mankind, future generations and ourselves!
Posted By: Huang Jian Yi :) (35) 3G
In recent years, with environmental-related problems and disasters getting more evident than ever, in addition to all the hype that surround global environmental issues, many people have, or are beginning to realize the detrimental impacts that environmental woes can have on us, and on our lives. Greenhouse effect, Global warming, rampant deforestation …… all these pressing environmental issues are finally given much-needed publicity and attention worldwide after being ignored and disregarded for decades, but these are definitely not enough if we intend to salvage the situation.
Amid rising temperatures and melting ice glaciers, more and more people are having first-hand experience of the negative effects of environmental problems, be it the warmer temperatures worldwide, or extreme weather conditions which results from it. All these have highlighted to the masses on the urgent and desperate need to take action, for the sake of protecting our earth, our homeland, and hopefully, ourselves.
In my opinion, I believe that every human being has to take up responsibility in an attempt to halt the further destruction of our planet as a result of our actions. No part is too small to play, if each and every one of us are united in our stand, we will definitely be able to at the very least, contribute to environmental protection through our part, even though it may be as minor as switching off electrical appliances which are not in use.
Carbon offsetting is an innovative initiative which was initially meant to raise awareness for taking up responsibility for our carbon emissions and to provide people with opportunities to contribute to environmental protection. The original blueprint and its initial aims are excellent ideas worth encouraging and supporting, however, due to commercialisation, carbon offsetting has became yet another form of marketing tool, capable of generating millions in the name of environmental protection.
As mentioned in the article, buying or trading carbon offsets may assuage one’s guilt for contributing to carbon emissions which are pushing our fragile earth towards the brink of destruction. Furthermore, we are also providing monetary support to the cause of environmental protection and conservation through our deals. Having painted such a rosy picture however, how are we going to prove and assure for ourselves that the truth is what we thought to be? Are we really contributing sensibly and significantly? Many questions regarding carbon offsetting, their transparency, legitimacy, dealings and ethics among many other, still remain unanswered, casting a cloud of controversy over this “green” strategy., most people do not have any idea whether their dealings are put to good use or how operators manage or systemize the processes, most are just glad to add to the influx of "green" profits garnered from carbon offset sales worldwide in exchange for the guilt-free label.
Every one of us has to show more responsibility and concern for our environment. It is indeed dismaying to know that not every individual is committed to the cause and our efforts are still, sadly, too weak and insignificant if we were to simply compare the rate of our offsets to our emissions. A tree needs thirty years to offset the carbon emission produced by a car in 4 hours.
Stumped we may be, but we must not allow these to deter us from playing our part. Engaging in inefficient carbon offset trading may not be beneficial to our environment and wallets after all, so it is high time that we end all these superficial and insignificant acts, and make concrete efforts to protect our environment, starting from small but sincere actions such as substituting air-conditioners for fans. Our small but sincere efforts will be appreciated and at least, there is transparency, knowing the way we offset and going green is really making a difference.
Prevention is better than cure; our earth is already battered, having born the brunt of our environmental woes, and most of us have had first-hand experience on the negative impacts of the negligence of environment protection. Let us not wait for the next catastrophe to happen before we scramble to take action, by then, it will be too late. Therefore, we have to do something soon, in fact, we must, for this is not charity, but a desperate attempt to save the lives of our earth, mankind, future generations and ourselves!
Posted By: Huang Jian Yi :) (35) 3G
Saturday, June 7, 2008
Medical Breakthroughs 2008 (Pg 70-79) May issue
Personally, I felt both elated and surprised by the technological advancement of today, after reading the article as the researchers have found new hopes for cancer, diabetes and more, which could help prolong the life and to improve the living conditions of the people.
Today, the heart disease has become the top killer in most countries. Fortunately, medical researches have successfully invented devices to help the people who suffered from heart diseases and problems.One of the device is called CPR-Glove which helps to compress the chest and give breaths while the other device called the Chronicle IHM (Implantable Hemodynamic Monitor), helps the patient by sending messages wirelessly via the Internet to the doctor for emergency help.These inventions would definitely benefit the patients and special care and attention would be given to them by using these devices. With no doubt, I think that this piece of good news would bring both joy and relieved to both the patient and his loved ones as many are desperate and tried means to help minimise the sufferings caused and their efforts had finally paid off.
Moreover, due to the technological advancement of today, researchers have also found out methods to reduce the pain when doing a blood test. In addition, they also manage to find ways to reduce the chances of disfigurements after the surgery. It uses the Magnetic Anchoring and Guidance System which requires the magnets to attract and guide the other magnets attached to tiny surgical tools to perform the surgery. They have also managed to invent methods to detect various types of cancer earlier such as the ovarian cancer, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis and depression etc.
On the other hand, I think that these discoveries would definitely bring the medical treatment to a grater height, as a result, more lives would be saved. To further add on, a simple procedure such as a concise list is adopted as a form of guideline to reduce the chances of the doctor's negligence and led to dire consequences. In my opinion, I felt that this measure is absolutely necessary as one would definitely make careless mistakes at times if they are not paying extra care and attention. On the other hand, this measure would give the patient and their loved ones a peace of mind when the patient is about have an operation.
However, after reading the article, I realised that in the modern society of today, we seemed to have done many things to change the flow of the course of nature. In other words, we have modified the natural environment of ours into a human environment to a large extent due to today's technological advancement. Take our human body for example, a new device such as an artificial lung is used to work with the heart's pumping action to manage oxygen and blood flow throughout the body. This type of method which requires an artificial instrument, seemed to be modifying the human beings into a "man-made" one or even changing them into a robot. I felt that our world would be dominated by robots some day. Perhaps, the world dominated by robots would speed up with the help of the technology of today. I think that it will be quite a frightening or an unpleasant experience living with robots instead of people.
In conclusion, this article has highlighted the importance of taking care of our health and body. We must not take things for granted and must adopt a healthy lifestyle in order to stay away from illnesses and diseases. Hence, cultivate a good eating habit and exercise regularly is essential for life. "An apple a day keeps a doctor away", so start adopting a healthy lifestyle!
Done by: Poon Le Ning (19) 3G
Today, the heart disease has become the top killer in most countries. Fortunately, medical researches have successfully invented devices to help the people who suffered from heart diseases and problems.One of the device is called CPR-Glove which helps to compress the chest and give breaths while the other device called the Chronicle IHM (Implantable Hemodynamic Monitor), helps the patient by sending messages wirelessly via the Internet to the doctor for emergency help.These inventions would definitely benefit the patients and special care and attention would be given to them by using these devices. With no doubt, I think that this piece of good news would bring both joy and relieved to both the patient and his loved ones as many are desperate and tried means to help minimise the sufferings caused and their efforts had finally paid off.
Moreover, due to the technological advancement of today, researchers have also found out methods to reduce the pain when doing a blood test. In addition, they also manage to find ways to reduce the chances of disfigurements after the surgery. It uses the Magnetic Anchoring and Guidance System which requires the magnets to attract and guide the other magnets attached to tiny surgical tools to perform the surgery. They have also managed to invent methods to detect various types of cancer earlier such as the ovarian cancer, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis and depression etc.
On the other hand, I think that these discoveries would definitely bring the medical treatment to a grater height, as a result, more lives would be saved. To further add on, a simple procedure such as a concise list is adopted as a form of guideline to reduce the chances of the doctor's negligence and led to dire consequences. In my opinion, I felt that this measure is absolutely necessary as one would definitely make careless mistakes at times if they are not paying extra care and attention. On the other hand, this measure would give the patient and their loved ones a peace of mind when the patient is about have an operation.
However, after reading the article, I realised that in the modern society of today, we seemed to have done many things to change the flow of the course of nature. In other words, we have modified the natural environment of ours into a human environment to a large extent due to today's technological advancement. Take our human body for example, a new device such as an artificial lung is used to work with the heart's pumping action to manage oxygen and blood flow throughout the body. This type of method which requires an artificial instrument, seemed to be modifying the human beings into a "man-made" one or even changing them into a robot. I felt that our world would be dominated by robots some day. Perhaps, the world dominated by robots would speed up with the help of the technology of today. I think that it will be quite a frightening or an unpleasant experience living with robots instead of people.
In conclusion, this article has highlighted the importance of taking care of our health and body. We must not take things for granted and must adopt a healthy lifestyle in order to stay away from illnesses and diseases. Hence, cultivate a good eating habit and exercise regularly is essential for life. "An apple a day keeps a doctor away", so start adopting a healthy lifestyle!
Done by: Poon Le Ning (19) 3G
Gut Feeling. MAY2008 Pg50-55
In this article, Lynn Sherr displayed great determination and courage as she accepted her illness bravely and overcame the cancer.
When she was admitted to the hospital due to a dagger-like pain to her gut on the lower right side that left her gasping, she was brave enough to have plucked up her courage to ask if it was cancer. She had lost many of her loved ones to cancer, including her husband, thus she was pretty sensitive towards this illness. The surgeon assured her that there was very small chance that it could be cancer. Even though she was going under the knife, she passed the word to her family and friends not to worry for her, she spared a thought for those people whom cared for her and did not want them to worry.
She was observant enough to realize ever since the first nurse avoided her question on whether she had cancer. Till her sister finally told her that she had colon cancer, the mystery was solved, but that was also when misery begun. Everyone from her workplace were concerned about her and paid visits to her. Sherr’s condition got better and she had to make another big decision, whether to have chemotherapy or not. She wanted to turn back the clock, to make everything the way it was before. “ I just wanted to be a normal person, living a normal life”, she said.
Her great determination and courage helped her as she underwent chemotherapy. After seven whole months, her misery was almost all over. Her vital signs were all “perfect” and she did not have to go back for treatment. Although there may be chances for recurrence, but it was slim. If not for her persistent in continuing to live on and to recover, she would not have pulled through all these and finally came out fine.
She did not want any celebrations, and did not want to talk about cancer anymore. However, she decided to share her story with others, so as to warn them that with proper screening, they would not have to suffer the discomfort she did.
Indeed, I believe that her story will save many people from the misery. Many times in life, we fail to realize the things that we already have and often want more. While enjoying all we have, we should also remember that there are much more unfortunate people in the world that are not as blessed as us. Those who are healthy, often neglect their health, and once illness comes along, it's too late for regrets. People who are healthy like us, should cherish our lives even more, and count our blessings.
When she was admitted to the hospital due to a dagger-like pain to her gut on the lower right side that left her gasping, she was brave enough to have plucked up her courage to ask if it was cancer. She had lost many of her loved ones to cancer, including her husband, thus she was pretty sensitive towards this illness. The surgeon assured her that there was very small chance that it could be cancer. Even though she was going under the knife, she passed the word to her family and friends not to worry for her, she spared a thought for those people whom cared for her and did not want them to worry.
She was observant enough to realize ever since the first nurse avoided her question on whether she had cancer. Till her sister finally told her that she had colon cancer, the mystery was solved, but that was also when misery begun. Everyone from her workplace were concerned about her and paid visits to her. Sherr’s condition got better and she had to make another big decision, whether to have chemotherapy or not. She wanted to turn back the clock, to make everything the way it was before. “ I just wanted to be a normal person, living a normal life”, she said.
Her great determination and courage helped her as she underwent chemotherapy. After seven whole months, her misery was almost all over. Her vital signs were all “perfect” and she did not have to go back for treatment. Although there may be chances for recurrence, but it was slim. If not for her persistent in continuing to live on and to recover, she would not have pulled through all these and finally came out fine.
She did not want any celebrations, and did not want to talk about cancer anymore. However, she decided to share her story with others, so as to warn them that with proper screening, they would not have to suffer the discomfort she did.
Indeed, I believe that her story will save many people from the misery. Many times in life, we fail to realize the things that we already have and often want more. While enjoying all we have, we should also remember that there are much more unfortunate people in the world that are not as blessed as us. Those who are healthy, often neglect their health, and once illness comes along, it's too late for regrets. People who are healthy like us, should cherish our lives even more, and count our blessings.
Friday, June 6, 2008
Running for his life (june issue pg 36-43)
This article is about a boy named Ryan who was dignosed with a rare condition similar to Parkison's disease known as dystonia when he was just seven. His dystonia was so severe which affected his left leg, hands and even his face. The only option left for him was to inject a painkiller into his spine so he wont feel any pain but he will lose the use of his leg and forever be confined to a wheelchair. Ryan didnt want to be crippled and refused to inject the painkiller. In the end, he found his talent in running and now sixteen, is one of Britian's top ten sprinter for his age group.
After reading this article, I am totally in awed with Ryan's determination. Even after he was dignosed with dystonia, he did not give himself up to depression and his illness. He even wrote a complain letter to his doctor that he is not a bin that he could anyhow shove pills into.
Even though i am in impressed with Ryan's fighting spirit, i would also think that he is actually escaping from reality and refusing to accept the fact that he might never walk ever again. i believed that was the reason he refused to install a stairlift in his house to help him to move around. In actual fact. I found it normal for him to behave this way. Any normal person would not be able to accept the fact suddenly that he/she would not be able to walk forever. To lose the abililty to walk when you have experienced the fun of walking and running is extremel painful, especially so for Ryan since he was dignosed at such a young age. I would think that it is his stubborness to not believe that he is ill that make him found his talent for running. And after that his determination to continue running and to tolerate the tedious traning.
I also think that unlike most people, he really treasure his own life and time. I believed it must be due to his illness, that made him realised the limited time we have before we die, the limited time we have to do many things.
Many of us gave up easily and alwasy think of dying when we scored low marks for our exams, or when things do not go our way. Hence, i wished that after they have read this article, they would treasure their life more.
After reading this article, I am totally in awed with Ryan's determination. Even after he was dignosed with dystonia, he did not give himself up to depression and his illness. He even wrote a complain letter to his doctor that he is not a bin that he could anyhow shove pills into.
Even though i am in impressed with Ryan's fighting spirit, i would also think that he is actually escaping from reality and refusing to accept the fact that he might never walk ever again. i believed that was the reason he refused to install a stairlift in his house to help him to move around. In actual fact. I found it normal for him to behave this way. Any normal person would not be able to accept the fact suddenly that he/she would not be able to walk forever. To lose the abililty to walk when you have experienced the fun of walking and running is extremel painful, especially so for Ryan since he was dignosed at such a young age. I would think that it is his stubborness to not believe that he is ill that make him found his talent for running. And after that his determination to continue running and to tolerate the tedious traning.
I also think that unlike most people, he really treasure his own life and time. I believed it must be due to his illness, that made him realised the limited time we have before we die, the limited time we have to do many things.
Many of us gave up easily and alwasy think of dying when we scored low marks for our exams, or when things do not go our way. Hence, i wished that after they have read this article, they would treasure their life more.
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Comments
Hi 3G, I'm glad to see that some of you have started on the assignment. Those of you who have posted already, do visit the blog and read your classmates' reflections. Please also remind one another to accept the invitation so that you have the permission to post to the blog!
For those who need me to send the invitation again, go to the picture discussion blog and leave your name + email address in the tagboard. I will check it every Saturday 12 midnight. You can save your work on a word document first if you cannot post to the blog.
Meanwhile, keep up the good work!
-Ms Heng
For those who need me to send the invitation again, go to the picture discussion blog and leave your name + email address in the tagboard. I will check it every Saturday 12 midnight. You can save your work on a word document first if you cannot post to the blog.
Meanwhile, keep up the good work!
-Ms Heng
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