We are launching this GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for Xiao Mei Wang, a 75-year-old skilled musician. Currently, Xiao Mei is on a temporary visa, which restricts her from earning any income, and she has limited proficiency in English.
Xiao Mei specializes in the art of playing the Chinese Pipa. Xiaomei is a proud member of the Melbourne Chinese Orchestra, a not-for-profit organization with a noble mission: to provide a vibrant and nurturing musical environment for enthusiasts and to contribute to the rich tapestry of our multicultural community. During her stay at Salvation Army residence village, the Chinese community has been her source of support, ensuring her basic needs are met as a community musician.
Xiao Mei’s talents extend far beyond the stage. She is also a compassionate volunteer for the Salvation Army. Through her tireless efforts, she has participated in numerous volunteer activities, including community music education, captivating performances at various community events, and inspiring and instructing the young minds of our community in libraries and beyond.
Unfortunately, recent times have dealt her a cruel hand, as she has been struck by a debilitating brain infection that has hindered her ability to play and teach music. Frequent hospital stays, difficulty with eating, and her ailment have left her incapable of earning a livelihood. The Asian Australian Volunteers, a compassionate organization (you can learn more about them here: aavolunteers.org.au), have been generously using their own resources to cover Xiao Mei’s personal expenses. However, their capacity to provide support is stretched thin due to the many others they assist.
Xiao Mei Wang urgently requires financial assistance for a variety of essentials, such as prescribed medications, toiletries, beneficial nutritional supplements, and transportation between the hospital and the home of her friends, where she resides when not under medical care.
We are reaching out to you, our community, and asking for your support in helping us cover her fundamental needs. We’re not seeking a vast sum of money, but rather a reserve amount that would enable the Volunteers to assist her in battling her illness without the constant burden of financial concerns. Your contribution, no matter how small, can make a significant difference in Xiao Mei’s life during this challenging time. Thank you for your generosity and kindness.
With heartfelt appreciation and warm regards,
Asian Australian Volunteers
https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-a-remarkable-musician-in-need
Update 2, December 4th, 2023
On the 29th of November, our committed volunteers Lei, Vega, and Brian visited Xiaomei at Alfred Hospital. Unfortunately, this signifies her final night at the hospital, as her illness has reached a point beyond cure. Starting tomorrow, she will be transitioning to Outlook Gardens Aged Care for the duration of her remaining time. It is with a heavy heart that we convey this news, knowing that Xiaomei will be spending her last time in aged care. The medical team has conveyed that she has only a couple of weeks left, but we hope not so. Your ongoing support during this challenging period means the world to us. Despite these difficult circumstances, AAV remains dedicated to doing our best to assist with the aged care costs. Your contributions continue to make a significant impact, and we are immensely grateful for your support.
Update 1, November 6th, 2023
This past Friday, our incredible volunteer, Lei, went above and beyond to make Xiaomei’s 75th birthday extra special. Not only did she bring a beautiful birthday cake, but she also delivered a generous donation of $1,500 that was contributed through our GoFundMe campaign. Our heartfelt thanks go out to all who contributed.
Xiaomei’s recovery is our top priority, and with your support, we are confident she will heal swiftly. Your kindness and generosity mean the world to us, and we’re excited to see Xiaomei’s continued progress on her journey to well-being. Thank you for making her special day even brighter!