Single mother Michelle Ong, 33, who is currently pregnant with her third child, runs a one-woman show for her online business where she conducts Facebook live sessions, pack orders and manages customer service all on her own.
JOHOR BARU: Mothers Day is far from single mum Michelle Ong’s mind as all she wants is to work hard to provide for her two sons and unborn daughter due next month.
The 33-year-old, who lost her husband in a traffic accident, said she wanted to save as much money as she could before the arrival of her baby girl.
Since The Star highlighted her story on April 22, Ong said she had been receiving overwhelming support and offers for help from members of the public.
“Many non-governmental organisations, politicians and a local councillor have visited me and donated money, food baskets filled with essential items as well as disposable diapers.
“Apart from that, at least 10 companies big and small, selling fresh vegetables, frozen seafood, coffee, skincare, handmade accessories and children’s pyjamas, have reached out to help me.
“I am thankful for the opportunities and have taken up some of the offers to sell their products via my Facebook page to earn a commission,” she said when interviewed.
Ong’s story about how her world came crashing down when she received a call from a friend informing her that her 31-year-old husband had met with an accident on Jan 28 captured the people’s attention when it was published.
Her two sons are aged six and three.
After her husband’s death, Ong started selling baby and children’s products through Facebook Live by dipping into her savings to purchase stocks.
She said she noticed that some of her returning customers made extra payments for their orders after learning about her plight.
“They told me it was for me to buy food for my children.
“While I am touched by the public response and donations, I’d prefer if they continue to support my business as I want to make an honest living and it is also more sustainable that way,” she added.
With her baby due soon, Ong said she had already already planned how to keep working during her confinement period.
She will be promoting the products through postings as she wants to reduce her live sessions to focus on taking care of her newborn.
Asked if she had any plans for Mothers Day celebration, Ong said she preferred to focus on her online business as there were still many things to learn.
“Running an online business on my own is not as easy as it seems. There are many challenges and things to take care of such as stock management, logistics and customer service.
“As I’m now heavily pregnant, I have to run my Facebook live sessions sitting down or I will experience body aches.
“I have been watching live sessions of other businesses to improve my skills. I hope that one day when my business is stable, I can afford to hire a part-time assistant,” she said.
