Healthy Changes: Pang's Story
In 2001, Pang Lee Thao’s husband divorced her at age 55, leaving Pang in a state of shock and depression. Additionally, the divorce left Pang with the full responsibility of caring for her son and mother-in-law. As a result of her sadness about the divorce and the added responsibility of caring for two other people, Pang became very depressed. After talking with some friends, she realized the best thing to do was to keep herself busy so she would not dwell on her problems.
A number of Pang’s friends were regular participants of HAP’s Elder Drop-in Center, and one day Pang decided to join them. She instantly felt at home with the other Elders and made new friends very quickly. Pang also benefited from HAP’s assistance interpreting letters and identifying services to help stabilize her life. HAP’s transportation to and from the Center enabled Pang to regularly attend the Drop-in Center programming.
Pang has now been attending the Drop-in Center for nearly seven years and has recovered from her depression. Pang stated, “Without the Elders Program, my life would not be as fun. I have met many friends and have seen many places.” Pang’s physical health has also improved drastically since she began exercising at the Drop-in Center. Her blood sugar level has decreased to 150 from a previous high of over 300!
With a new-found enthusiasm for life at age 63, she now volunteers three to four days per week at local nursing homes, providing other Hmong Elders with conversation and companionship. Her conversations with Elders cover a wide range of topics, such as family, hobbies, and life in the old country.
Pang is very excited about the recent grand opening of the Paj Ntaub Center at Hmong American Partnership because she knows the addition of Adult Daycare Services will allow many more Elders to benefit from HAP’s programs. Pang is also looking forward to the fact that the Paj Ntaub Center will serve different ethnic groups such as Vietnamese, Karen and Somali Elders. She is anxious to broaden her horizons and learn from other refugee groups. Pang plans to continue attending the Paj Ntaub Center regularly and encourages all of her friends and family to join the Paj Ntaub Center, too!