"Lonely Struggles of a Sandwich Maker: The Essential Role of Assistance for One Woman in the Food Industry"
In a bustling five-room flat in Singapore, Marlina Isa faces a daunting task every day. As a partner at gov.sg, a government initiative focused on digital communication and public engagement, she juggles her professional life with her role as a caregiver for not one, but two ailing parents and three boys.
Marlina's father, Mohd Isa Kasiran, is an 83-year-old man who has been experiencing health issues since a stroke in 2018. The stroke resulted in vascular dementia, and since August last year, he has been experiencing a series of epileptic seizures. These health issues have left his body and mind increasingly frail.
Mohamad Alfian Ismail, Marlina's husband, described the care required for Mohd Isa as a "real fiasco." Bathing Mohd Isa can take up to an hour and requires at least two pairs of hands due to his frail condition. Any sudden events may significantly affect Maimunah Abd Hamid, Marlina's 82-year-old mother who is also present in the household. She has an irregular heart rhythm, and the commotion caused by Mohd Isa's health issues can visibly shake her.
Marlina, a member of the "sandwich generation," finds herself caught between caring for her parents and raising her children. Her sons return home from school during the commotion, each with something to tell her upon arriving. The care for Mohd Isa is a constant challenge, but Marlina faces it with resilience, ensuring that both her parents and children are well-cared for.
The situation is far from ideal, but Marlina remains hopeful. She continues to balance her professional and personal life, providing care for her parents while ensuring her children's needs are met. It's a demanding task, but Marlina's determination and love for her family keep her going.
