#RainbowofHope A Family Bound by Hope: Gabriel and Gessica’s Path Forward

Gabriel and Gessica are two remarkable children whose lives have been shaped by resilience, courage and the unwavering love of their family. 

Gabriel entered the world far earlier than expected, born prematurely at just 28 weeks. From the very beginning, his journey was marked by medical challenges. He was diagnosed with chronic lung disease and a hernia at birth. By the age of one, Gabriel was identified as having global developmental delay, and at three, he was diagnosed with autism. More recently, at the age of ten, he was also diagnosed with exam-related anxiety. 

For Gabriel, hospital wards became a familiar environment. The National University Hospital (NUH) felt almost like a second home during his early years. Thankfully, as he has grown older, his physical health has improved. However, periods of stress—particularly during exams—can still take a heavy toll on his body, reminding his family that his journey requires ongoing care and understanding. 

Gessica’s path has been different, yet equally challenging. She was diagnosed with high-functioning mild autism at the age of three, and later, at six, with dyslexia. In her younger years, she struggled with emotional regulation. When she heard the word “no”, she would lie down on the floor or even on the road, overwhelmed by distress. She was also fearful of adults, which made social interactions particularly difficult. 

Behind the scenes, their parents have faced many practical challenges. Gabriel’s frequent hospital appointments—sometimes several in a single month—required careful juggling of work and caregiving responsibilities. Ms Jasmine, caregiver of Gabriel and Gessica, shares, “As we are working parents, we had to take turns taking leave from work. When Gabriel was hospitalised, one of us stayed with him while the other cared for Gessica at home, and during those times, neither of us was able to work.” 

From the very beginning, Club Rainbow (Singapore) became a pillar of support for the family. It was through a social worker at NUH that the family first learnt about Club Rainbow. Gabriel joined Club Rainbow when he was just one year old, in 2011. Gessica followed some years later, joining at the age of four in 2017.  

Ms Jasmine recalls, “I remember when Gabriel was born. His father’s income was very low, and we struggled even to pay for his medical bills. Club Rainbow supported our family in so many ways, providing food, milk powder and diapers when we needed them most.” 

As the children grew, new challenges emerged. Therapy was essential, but the cost was beyond what the family could manage. Once again, Club Rainbow provided subsidised therapy sessions that made these services accessible. “They truly helped to ease our financial burden. Without all the support from Club Rainbow over the years, my children would not have come this far. Today, they are even able to attend tuition lessons,” Ms Jasmine adds. 

Today, the family’s hopes are simple yet profound: that Gabriel and Gessica will grow to live independently, stay healthy, and find happiness in their lives. 

To the donors and supporters of Club Rainbow, the family shares a heartfelt message of gratitude, “Even the smallest gesture through your donations has made a meaningful difference to our family’s life.” 

“To Club Rainbow (Singapore), thank you for supporting us throughout our journey. Without your dedication and hard work, we would not have come this far. I am truly appreciative and deeply grateful for all the support you have given to my family.” 

Support low-income families like Gabriel and Gessica’s family by donating to our #RainbowofHope fundraising campaign. 

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    

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