FOR children battling cancer, being surrounded by butterflies and greenery helps take their minds off hospital routines for a while.
The therapeutic outing to Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm in Teluk Bahang was organised by Lions Club of Penang (Host), its Tanjung, Tanjung Putri and Tanjung Star branches, as well as non-governmental organisation (NGO) Friends of Childhood Cancer Northern Malaysia (Foccan).
The 15 children and their families spent the morning touring the butterfly and insect conservatory.
They even helped release newly emerged butterflies, as a symbol of hope.
Discovery centre The Cocoon enabled family bonding, while a networking lunch allowed participants to mingle with the organisers.
Following that, specialised care packages were distributed to the children.
Under the theme “Wings of Hope”, organising chairman Lee Chee Hoe hoped the visit lifted the spirits of children undergoing the gruelling medical treatment.
“Childhood cancer is a journey that no family should walk alone,” he said.
“By combining the resources of our four Lions Clubs and Foccan’s expertise, we were able to provide more than just a day trip. It shows that we see you and we are with you.”
Childhood cancer is a core focus area for Lions Clubs International.
“The collaboration underscores the commitment of Penang’s Lions to improve quality of life for those affected by the disease.
“Partnering with NGOs like Foccan ensures support reaches those who need it most,” said Lee.
He thanked Entopia management and the private donors who chipped in to make the day possible.
Overseeing the occasion were Lions Club of Penang president Teoh Shaw Jhee, Lions Club of Tanjung president Ung Eak Tian, Lions Club of Tanjung Putri president Rita Teoh and Lions Club of Tanjung Star president Raynard Ong, as well as District 308 B2 Region 1 chairperson Desmond Teng and GST coordinator Soon Yeong Nee.
Also present were Foccan president Maznah Tayyib and Entopia representative Lavinia Neoh.
