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When he was 12 years old, Raphael Lee had gone through six episodes of cancer.
But these adversities, including the loss of her left arm, did not diminish her determination to complete her Elementary School Exit Exam (PSLE).
She took the exam when she had cancer and performed well even though she only attended half a year of school every year from Primary 2.
Raphael died on November 13, 12 days before his results were published.
Many of his friends remember him for his resilience and positive attitude even when the odds were against him.
One of his classmates from Primary 1 to 4, Daniel Chen Xi, said he was moved and inspired by Raphael’s courage to carry out the amputation of his left arm above the elbow, even if it meant that the possibility of having a prosthetic arm would be limited. .
He said: “When some of our school teachers took us to Bounce, a trampoline park, he never allowed his lack of mobility or strength to keep him from having fun.
“In fact, he did most of the activities better than my brother and me.”
His six-year-old classmate Hugo Tang, 12, described Raphael as an enthusiastic and optimistic boy.
“The joy and laughter he brought us was exceptional. I still remember the moments during recess when some of us would sit with Raphael and listen to his jokes,” he said.
Raphael’s social worker at the Children’s Cancer Foundation, Ms Kristen Yeo, said that she would face every obstacle with courage and take every challenge in stride.
“He also always greeted us with a smile, even after painful and uncomfortable procedures. I often thought to myself, ‘Wow, this boy’s stamina and strength are admirable,” she said.
Raphael’s parents, Mr. William Lee, 47, and Ms. Winnie Lee, 45, said the church and school community had been supportive of them throughout the term, bringing him school work and sending him messages of encouragement.
An advance copy of Raphael’s PSLE certificate was placed in the coffin with him.
Mrs. Susan Purnomo, 50, who met Rafael and his parents through St. Bernadette Church, said: “Despite missing school for so many months, Raphael never gave up and worked hard for his PSLE exams. .
“He passed the exams and won the race even though he couldn’t be there to receive his results personally.”
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