A Heart Full of Joy: Zoe’s Journey of Hope, Faith, and Love
Zoe Ng
With a radiant smile and eyes filled with wonder, Zoe is a little girl who exudes joy, love, and an unshakeable confidence in the goodness of life. Mr Ng, Zoe’s caregiver, describes her as a joyful, hope-filled, love-filled girl who knows she is very loved and celebrated, and is confident that life and the future hold wonderfully good plans for her.
Embracing Life with Courage
Zoe was born with congenital harlequin ichthyosis, a rare and severe skin condition that affects the rate at which her skin regenerates. This accelerated growth causes constant shedding and a rough, scaly skin texture. While in the womb, the condition cut off the blood supply to her hands, leading to necrosis and eventual auto-amputation within her first few days of life.
The condition also presents ongoing challenges: her skin’s protective barrier is compromised, making her vulnerable to temperature changes and infections. The skin around her eyes doesn’t allow her eyelids to fully close, risking dryness of the eyes and potential damage to her corneas. Her toes are also affected by thickened skin, causing some of them to curl up, which can distort their growth and structure.
Yet, Mr Ng does not dwell on the difficulties. Instead, he speaks of grace, resilience, and their family’s unwavering faith as Christians. “Every seeming challenge has been very smoothly overcome,” they share. “God knows when to bring gracious people to us at different seasons, and through all seasons, always keep us encouraged and well-supplied.”
A Joyful Discovery
Zoe’s journey with Club Rainbow (Singapore) began before she turned one, although the family only started participating in the programmes and activities a few years later. It was through one such initiative — Club Rainbow’s Kris Kringle programme — that they experienced the warm embrace of the Club Rainbow community. Every year, families are invited to submit a small wish that their child would love to receive for Christmas under Club Rainbow’s Kris Kringle Programme.
During a past edition of Kris Kringle, Zoe wished for art materials to express her creativity, and the donor went the extra mile to ensure she received what she loved — even working with the family to find suitable alternatives when certain items weren’t available. It was a gesture that spoke volumes of care and thoughtfulness.
Club Rainbow has also become more than just a support network — it has broadened the family’s perspective of the world. “It has opened up our social circle and increased our awareness of various needs everywhere,” they reflect. “It’s also made us more aware of kindness and courage all around us.”
A Celebration to Remember
One of the most treasured memories came from a Christmas celebration at Concorde Hotel. “We were treated to a very special programme — the lighting of the Christmas tree, a choir performance, games, a lucky draw, and an absolutely sumptuous dinner,” Mr Ng recalls. “We really felt like royalty.”
More than just an outing, the experience was a reminder of the kindness and generosity that exist in the world — which Zoe and her loved ones are thankful for.
A Word of Thanks
To the donors and partners who bring Kris Kringle to life each year, Mr Ng expresses heartfelt gratitude:
“Thank you for caring, for showing grace, and for taking time and effort to express that care. Your service to us, even while managing your own needs, is noble. May your own needs be met by gracious people whom God sends your way.”
A Call to Love and Grace
To anyone considering donating or fundraising for Kris Kringle, their message is simple:
“Thank you for your willingness to bless those you do not know personally. May your heart keep growing in love and grace.”
Zoe’s story is one of resilience, faith, and the quiet power of love — both given and received. It’s a reminder that even in the face of life’s toughest challenges, joy and hope can still shine brightly.
Support our children like Zoe via #DiamondsofResilience Fundraising Campaign. Every donation also brings a double blessing: Thanks to Tote Board’s dollar-for-dollar matching, your contribution will go twice as far in brightening the lives of our children this holiday season.
Share the gift of hope and make this season brighter for our children - donate today, start your own fundraising campaign or spread the word with #SpreadRainbowCheer #DiamondsofResilience!
About Club Rainbow (Singapore)
Established in 1992, Club Rainbow (Singapore) is a non-profit organisation and charity dedicated to supporting and empowering children with chronic illnesses – many of whom are with special needs and disabilities – and their families. Through a holistic suite of compassionate, relevant services, we journey with them towards living with dignity, and becoming active contributors to the society.
Website: https://www.clubrainbow.org
Contact number: 6377 1789
Email: contact@clubrainbow.org
Facebook / Instagram / TikTok / LinkedIn / YouTube: @clubrainbowsingapore