In the days leading up to Tet, amidst the hustle and bustle of life out there, another rhythm resonates in the premises of K Hospital, Tam Hiep facility: The rhythm of sharing, of humanity and of reunion meals for cancer patients being treated.
On February 2nd (ie, December 15th of the lunar calendar), the program "Loving Tet - Reunion Meal" was solemnly held at the dining hall of K Hospital, Tam Hiep facility. The atmosphere here is not only bustling with meal preparation activities but also warm with smiles, handshakes and hopeful eyes of patients.
For patients who are healthy enough, they are invited downstairs to eat to gather around the traditional Tet meal tray. For those who are still weak, each hot meal is personally brought to the hospital bed by kitchen staff and volunteers - so that no one is left behind in the moment of reunion at the end of the year.
These meaningful meals are sponsored by Ben Tre Renewable Energy Joint Stock Company. This is also the unit that has accompanied and operated the Free Meal House at Tam Hiep facility for the past 3 years, providing hundreds of free lunches and dinners for patients every day - a persistent, quiet but meaningful joint effort.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pham Van Binh - Deputy Director of Professional Affairs of K Hospital - shared emotionally: "The Year-end meal has become an annual activity of K Hospital. This is not just a meal but also a testament to the companionship and sharing of the team of doctors and sponsors. The journey of treatment is not only physical treatment but also a journey to connect people with people. We want patients to feel that they are not alone. Each meal, each wish sends a humane message: No one is left behind.
The Year-end meal program is part of a series of humanitarian activities that K Hospital organizes every Tet holiday, Spring comes such as: 0-dong Fair, Spring Flower Street, Loving Bus Trip... These activities are not only of material significance but also a spiritual support to help patients become more optimistic and steadfast on their treatment journey.
Dr. Do Anh Tu - Deputy Director of Professional Affairs of K Hospital, in charge of Tam Hiep facility - emphasized: "We hope that the Tet Eve meal will always be preserved as a traditional beauty, so that the hospital is not only a place to treat diseases but also a warm home of human love, where every spring carries new hope.
In that warm space, many patients could not hold back their tears when enjoying Tet-flavored dishes such as banh chung, spring rolls, gio, pickled onions... Some people tearfully missed home, some were moved to feel the affection of the hospital and the community.
More than just a meal, the Tet Eve meal is a symbol of sharing, of affection and of faith in the spring ahead.
