Photo: Yakobus (left) and Sebastianus (center) believed help would come one day and change the latter’s life
“Everything is by God’s will. No need to worry, no need to be angry [with Him]. Just raise this boy. When he’s a bit older, someone will come with help.”
BOVEN DIGOEL – Albeit years ago, these words from a visiting pastor still ring in the ears of Yakobus Upjandit, whose son Sebastianus had long suffered from a physical condition.
Until he was fourteen, Sebastianus did not have a fully formed lip. This limited his ability to speak and swallow and, by his early teens, put his confidence at an all-time low.
But Yakobus loved the child — so much that the older Upjandit never stopped providing the best care, even with financial difficulties. “Maybe this is a test from God, [we thought]. So there was no doubt or resentment. We just [did what the pastor said, we] raised him.”
And just as promised, help arrived through an accidental meeting with private palm oil firm TSE Group. The company was holding a Corporate Social Contribution (CSC) event at Terek Subur Public Middle 1 (SMP Negeri 1 Terek Subur) at the Upjandits’ hometown in Subur District.
In a flash, Sebastianus saw his needs for treatment covered, as well as for transportation to the hospital and accommodation. After a few rounds of screening at the Merauke Navy Hospital, the boy finally went under the knife, repairing his cleft lip.
Photo: Sebastianus, during his post-surgical care with dr. Firman Djayawidjaja and the media team from Asiki Clinic
The three-hour surgery ran smoothly, and was followed by in-patient care to help Sebastianus recover for the next five days. Afterward, the surgeon in charge allowed him to return home and remove his stitches at the TSE Group-managed Asiki Clinic.
“The surgery went well. I’m deeply grateful, both to God and the company, for all the help. Not only do we receive money and meds, we also get food ingredients,” Yakobus said.
This assistance reflects TSE Group’s values and vision to connect with local communities and contribute to social development. It improves the health and future of children like Sebastianus by increasing their self-confidence and opportunities for socializing. (PR)
