Chok Kher Wei, 14

School: Anglican High School

Topic: An email to encourage a student from your school

Award: Second Place, Junior Category, 2025

Dear Linaya, 

I am Kher Wei from 2J. Though we may not have spoken to each other before, I wanted to reach out to you after hearing about your father’s passing and his incredible act of kindness. First, please accept my deepest condolences; it must be a very difficult time for you right now. I am extremely sorry for your loss, but rest assured, my thoughts would be with you throughout this difficult time. 

After dinner last night, I just happened to chance upon a news article on Instagram. I stopped scrolling when I saw the header - “The Sacrifice That Has Saved Six Lives”. I could not resist the urge to expand the article. As I was reading, my eyes blurred with tears, and my heart started to pound harder. I thought to myself: How can someone be so selfless? Your family’s choice to give strangers a second chance to live left me in awe. Your father’s act was like lighting a candle, in the darkest room. It guided strangers towards hope. In a world where organ donation can sometimes conflict with tradition, it makes your family’s decision even more remarkable. Therefore, when I read about the news, I was extremely surprised. Surprised that someone would break the stereotype of traditions; surprised that the family agreed to this decision; surprised that such a small act could save six people in the world. Your family is very courageous, prioritising strangers’ lives amidst your grief. I am very proud of you and your family. The decision did not just heal six people; it honoured your father’s spirit in the most profound way. The six patients might wake up every day grateful for his gift, and for your family’s strength in granting it. 

I know that sometimes, your memories might return and haunt you, and it might be terrifying. If you ever need company - whether to talk, or even just to sit quietly together, I am here. Sometimes, the loudest grief needs the softest spaces. We can dance to your favourite music together, or crochet silly hats. Your father’s experience shows that one life can rewrite many. And you, Linaya, are part of that story. Sometimes, heroes are not just those who save lives, but the people who keep going on after losing them. 

All in all, you are a very brave girl, and I hope you feel immense pride! Both you and your father are truly inspiring. One man’s gift made six whole miracles – your father did not just leave the world, he transformed it. The recipients of your father’s organ would be extremely thankful to you and your family. Your father’s sacrifice let six families be able to smile again. They have probably been waiting for this perfect match for ages, and just when they were about to give up, your father appeared. Your father is a real hero, and you should be remarkably proud of him. 

If you would ever like to talk about your father — his favorite foods, the stories that make you laugh, or even the moments you miss him most, I would be honored to listen. Heroes’ stories deserve to be told, and yours does too. 

Best Regards,

Kher Wei

Disclaimer: Please note that the views and opinions expressed in the essays for the Live On Festival 2025 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