The Toughest Days of My Entire Life

I remembered what happened exactly 5 days ago like it just happened yesterday. I woke up so late that I was only thinking I was doomed for my next paper because I didn't study much the night before. I waited for my friends to go for lunch at about 2 pm. After lunch, I had a call. An unknown number. I thought this was probably another "You've got the wrong number" call. How wrong I was. It was Sandra's cousin, Yvonne, asking me whether I was in Melaka or not and informed me that she was involved in a car accident. After saying no and giving another friend's number who was in Melaka, I messaged to ask what really happened and I wanted updates. She wasn't exactly sure either so I had to wait. About an hour later, I received another message from my friend, Sheryl, asking me whether I was in Melaka. I told her I generally knew what happened and asked for an update. The next message was one I wished I never received. It said "She passed away". I froze. I was in total shock. I didn't know what to do. I kept thinking it wasn't true. I didn't reply because I didn't want to believe it. Then, a call came that was most heart-wrenching. Ai Fang called me later and confirmed it. She asked me to stay calm before she said it. I was. Only until the call ended. I couldn't contain myself from breaking down. It was so hard to take, so terribly painful. I was all alone in my room, staying there right until dinner time where I hid my emotions that my housemates didn't suspect something was amiss. A few calls and messages came that night. Telling me to be strong and reminding me of keeping focus for the next paper. The next 2 days were unbearable. All the memories kept rushing by. My exam on Saturday wasn't the toughest paper. But after what had happened, it seemed the toughest I ever did. I never mentioned it, but I want to thank my brother because he broke a record traveling time from my uni to Melaka just for me to make it for her funeral on time because he knew how much she means to me. When I arrived, I couldn't help but tear up when I saw her mom and sisters. A hug of comfort didn't heal the pain. But her mom told me not to cry and told me to stay strong. Moments later while walking, I felt a pat on the shoulder. It was Wee Kiat. He knew how I felt the most and he was so supportive throughout the day. He was always by my side and how I thank him for that. And I thank the rest who were there as well and to those who showed encouragement including Ganesh who called from Russia. And special thanks to Yvonne, Jacqueline, Melanie and Christine. You girls told me wonderful things about her that reminded me of her joyful, fun, loving, caring, and beautiful personality that I loved. Sure, it is tough and painful but I know she's in a better place and in God's care.

In loving memory of the beautiful Sandra Wong
21 November 1988 - 14 January 2010