WINNIE TAY GREATER CHALLENGES Challenges did not end <strong>the</strong>re. Back at home, her beloved husband, George, was diagnosed with kidney cancer in 1977. “I knew <strong>the</strong>n that I had to be a wife and mo<strong>the</strong>r first,” she shares. “By God’s grace, with one kidney removed, George recovered. Unfortunately, unbeknownst to us, this was just <strong>the</strong> beginning of more medical challenges ahead.” “In 1994, George was hit yet by ano<strong>the</strong>r big blow,” she says ruefully. “This time he was diagnosed with Oesophogus cancer. Without <strong>the</strong> necessary expertise available in <strong>the</strong> country, we sought medical help in Singapore. “ Due to <strong>the</strong> severity of George’s condition, and <strong>the</strong> 25 per cent survival rate from <strong>the</strong> operation, <strong>the</strong> doctor advised Winnie to call her sons back from overseas to be by his side. “My sons were in <strong>the</strong> midst of <strong>the</strong>ir exams but this was a dire situation and <strong>the</strong>ir presence was needed by <strong>the</strong>ir fa<strong>the</strong>r’s side,” she explained. “This time, <strong>the</strong>y removed half his stomach and oesphogus and two ribs.” Winnie and her family’s strong spiritual belief and prayerful inclinations led to ano<strong>the</strong>r successful blessing for George’s recovery. “That day changed my life’s focus and aspirations. Life was too short. I stood by George and watched over him like a hawk, ensuring he watched his diet and maintained good health. As a result, I became a nagging wife!” “Today, he is just recovering from hernia surgery,” she says. “It’s amazing how well he is doing.” She gazes over to George who is pottering about <strong>the</strong> house – with a little skip in his step, no less – to ensure that he is ready should Winnie need any assistance. “He is my pillar of strength,” she said. “In everything I have done, it’s not without his worthy consult and he is always ready to stand by me and encourage me to move forward and do things.” “All that I have achieved in my life, I did so because of George. Like my late fa<strong>the</strong>r, he, too, believes in me.” Today at 70, Winnie is <strong>the</strong> epitome of calm. Having wea<strong>the</strong>red many storms in her day, she is ready to deal with any more that may come her way. “I am still <strong>the</strong> hawk and barber to my beloved husband,” she smiles. “and cook and baker to my children and seven grandchildren.” “I am still very involved in my work but I keep a good worklife balance and make sure I enjoy my time in my courtyard that I designed, cooking up a storm every weekend.” Life has thrown many challenges her way, but yet Winnie, armed with good support and a determination, has risen above it all, keeping calm and order and staying resilient each time. “He is my pillar of strength,” she said. “In everything I have done, it’s not without his worthy consult and he is always ready to stand by me and encourage me to move forward and do things.” TM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2017</strong> 22
WINNIE TAY Knit turtleneck, MICHAEL KORS COLLECTION. Bangle and earring, KATE SPADE NEW YORK. Pleated short sleeved top and printed pleated skirt, both from PLEATS PLEASE Issey Miyake Necklace, watch and eyeglasses, Winnie’s own 23 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2017</strong> | TM