38-year-old Melon came to Singapore to work in the plumbing sector to support his family of eight in Bangladesh. Due to the increase in Covid-19 cases in the migrant workers’ dormitories last year, Melon was not able to work for six months. He resumed work on September 2020, but was met with an unfortunate workplace accident a month later.

On 22 October 2020, Melon was unloading 50kg toilet bowls when he heard a crack in his spine. Despite the pain, he continued working till his shift ended. Melon continued to experience unbearable back pain the next day and had trouble even standing up. He was subsequently brought to the hospital and the doctor informed Melon that he had suffered a slipped disc. A week after the accident, Melon had underwent an operation and was hospitalised for two months. He was also given 7 months of MC. Till this day, Melon still experiences back pain and discomfort from time to time.

Back in Bangladesh, Melon is the eldest son and sole breadwinner of his family. His elderly parents, younger siblings, wife and 19-months-old son are relying on him for their daily living expenses. Melon shed a tear when he shared that he was unable to support his family financially since the accident. His father had to take up loans in Bangladesh to defray the family’s living expenses.

Prior to the accident, Melon was earning approximately $1,600 a month. He used to remit the bulk of what he was earning home each month to his family. Melon is now worried about the finances at home while he is working towards recovery, by attending monthly physiotherapy sessions. He hopes to return to work soon so that he can continue supporting his family.

Ray of Hope would like to raise $3,000 ($750 x 4 months) to support Melon and his family for the next 4 months as he works towards recovery.