'Angels' watch over special folk


24 February 2012 | last updated at 12:09AM

By OLIVIA PETER 
PETALING JAYA: 
streets@nstp.com.my 

THIRTEEN disabled folk each had an "angel" watching over them while they learnt to swim at the PJ Palms Sports Centre, here, recently.

Thirteen friends who call themselves the Heap Hope Angels joined their special charges in the shallow pool -- although almost half of the volunteers did not know how to swim themselves.

Swimming instructor, Yeap Eu Juan gave free lessons to the special group from Beautiful Gate Foundaton for the Disabled.

"I applied the same teaching methods, but paid attention to their needs and limitations," said Yeap, who also helped to guide deaf people.

 Yeap, who is also the Swimin12 managing director, said he usually charged RM1,200 per person for a full swimming course.

"Today I taught them the basics -- how to breathe, float and move in the water."

Heap Hope Angels committee member Chan Wing Leong, 34 said the group was founded in 2008 to help to make a difference.

"Our lives are made more meaningful and satisfactory when we help others, especially when we see how it had helped them to achieve something.

"We plan to have monthly swimming sessions here," he said.

Ng Say Leng said swimming was good exercise that he was able to do.

 "By using the buoy ring to keep us afloat, we are able to move in the water," said the young man who suffers from muscular dystrophy.

Steven Looi, 30, who has only 40 per cent vision, said he had learnt basic techniques from a swimming instructor.

 "Accidentally hitting others is the worst thing that can happen if I swim without company," he said.

 For details on swimming sessions to come, call Chan at 012-612 0621 or email committee@heaphope.com.
angel
The volunteers, the instructor and the students get along swimmingly at the PJ Palm Sports Centre. Pic By Shah Adnan

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