Kam Fung Yung’s Story
“Chest hurting, cold sweating — still in my swimsuit — I fumbled for my phone and dialled my son’s number."
I’ve always been independent and never wish to inconvenience others, but this feeling was one I knew I shouldn’t take lightly. I was in pain, gripped by concern for myself and for my family, and I needed to be rushed to the hospital.
My name is Kam Fung Yung, and I am writing to you not only as a grateful patient of Richmond Hospital, but also as someone whose life was touched by caring community members who generously gave before they knew I’d need help. I’ve been fortunate to enjoy good health for most of my life despite my age, so this medical scare a few months ago came as a surprise.
I was all ready for my daily swim at Watermania that morning. Just as I was about to leave my house for the bus — suddenly — my heart began pounding fiercely. I didn’t know what was happening, only that I needed urgent medical attention. Thankfully, Richmond Hospital was only a short distance away.
That’s why I would like to invite you to join me in giving. Like many, I started out as a onetime donor when I heard about Richmond Hospital’s new acute care tower. But I quickly realized that within the building are people pouring their hearts into every moment of care — and how much it matters to show up for them, like they always do for us.
At the Emergency Department, I was admitted for further diagnosis and sent in for an MRI scan. I’m not one to ask for help, but as I laid down for the scan, a staff member noticed my skin pricked with goosebumps, hands clenched over stomach, and body stiff — I was freezing. She kindly offered me a blanket and even brought an extra one just to make sure I was comfortable.
As a result, I underwent an angioplasty, a minimally invasive procedure used to widen narrowed blood vessels, which is fairly common among older adults. I then stayed at Richmond Hospital for recovery.
Everyone, from top to bottom, treated me with such respect and attentiveness. It got me thinking… we all look out for each other in our own ways. If we all give what we can, we help strengthen a network of care that looks after each other, in addition to ourselves, and those who follow.
The truth is, no matter our age, we all need health care services. After donating to the future Yurkovich Family Pavilion, the compassionate care I received at Richmond Hospital inspired me to contribute again — and soon after, I committed to giving monthly.
A week after I was discharged, I was back at the mahjong table — laughing and appreciating this simple joy more than ever.… That return to normal life? I owe it to the excellent care I received, including the MRI scan that helped medical staff act in time, made possible by donors like you.
Would you consider donating again to make a meaningful impact for people like me when we need it most? Your monthly donation ensures Richmond Hospital can meet the evolving needs of our growing population, invest in essential equipment, and provide timely care for urgent patients in their time of greatest need—people like you and me, who rely on quality health care to get back to the things we love. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of countless individuals and families.
With gratitude,
Yung Kam Fung
P.S. If you become our monthly donor now, the James and Grace Dy family will match your contribution—every single month, up to a total of $20,000.
