Jaiaree Rattawit, 14

School: Outram Secondary School

Topic: An email to your teacher about your observations on your classmate.

Award: Special Mention, Junior Category, 2023

Observations of My Friend

Dear Ms. Tan

It is with a heavy heart that I am writing you this email. As the new school year begins and the class basks in the delight of embarking on new adventures, one noticeably different individual stands out among the rest. Harry, the once jovial boy whose smile had always been contagious, has had a frown permanently plastered on his face. His pronounced limp and downcast demeanour have prompted me to pen to you feasible solutions in bringing joy back to his life. As his peer, I believe that with our support, he will not be alone in the uphill battle against the debilitating disease that continues to plague him.

The treatment of hemodialysis has brought hope to Harry and his family but the side effects have not been as kind. Daily, as students interact with each other, Harry spends most of his time managing the fatigue and nausea that arise from the treatment. He can often be found in the toilet booth, battling with the constant urge to vomit. During recess, he chooses to remain in class, far away from the crowd. Previously a bright and diligent student, he now struggles to stay focused, largely due to the sleep apnea that has kicked in, affecting the quality of his sleep.

Being on the deceased donor kidney transplant waiting list is a huge stride towards a healthier and longer life, but with an average waiting time of nine years, Harry is required to possess a great amount of perseverance and tenacity. To aid him on this arduous journey, I have planned to rope in the help of my classmates to conduct a classroom makeover through the use of vividly-coloured decor. We shall put colour psychology into play to help elevate his mood and to evoke positive emotions that would prevent his regression into depression. In addition, Harry is an avid hamster owner who loves all things related to the adorable rodent. Hence, the decorations shall revolve around the theme of hamsters.

Swimming is another class activity that is bound to add value to Harry’s life. The benefits of regular aquatic exercise have been proven to ameliorate kidney dysfunctions and build cardiovascular fitness. Being a relaxing form of exercise, it also helps to alleviate stress, allowing him to take his mind off the potential risks associated with kidney transplant, such as organ rejection and the need to comply with a complex medical regime. The liberation and calm that one feels when in the expanse of the water is bound to instil vigour into Harry once again.

I understand that the school has to remain impartial in allocating the use of the swimming pool but with a classmate straddling between life and death, I sincerely implore you to provide us with greater access to the swimming facilities. Concurrently, we, as his peers, are more than willing to put in efforts in ensuring that his school years remain fruitful.

Thank you.

Yours sincerely
Jaiaree Rattawit

Disclaimer: Please note that the views and opinions expressed in the essays for the Live On Festival 2023 are those of the participants and are not endorsed by the National Organ Transplant Unit (Ministry of Health). To learn more about organ donation and organ transplantation in Singapore, please visit www.liveon.gov.sg