Story of Liu Yun, 63
"They really look out for me here. They teach me not just crafts, but how to be smarter with money. They tell me, 'Make sure you have something saved for yourself."
Liu Yun, 63, faces each day with a mix of hope and uncertainty because of her son's struggle with addiction. "Some mornings are harder than others. I never know what to expect, but I've learned to appreciate the small, predictable moments," she says with quiet strength.
Her son's gambling addiction has strained their lives for years, often pushing her into financial corners. "I used to give him whatever money I had, hoping it would help him settle his debts and start fresh. But it never did," she says, recalling the times she had to forego her own needs, even medical care, because the money was gone.
At Chillfuzz, Liu Yun has found more than just employment; she's found a support system. The company helped her secure a poverty subsidy from the village, easing some of her financial burdens. "Working here isn't just about the paycheck. It's about feeling secure and learning how to keep myself safe financially" she shares.
Despite her age and the challenges it brings—her work pace isn't as fast as younger colleagues, and sometimes her vision blurs—Liu Yun is determined to make the most of her time. The instructors at Chillfuzz are patient, often taking extra time to guide her through craft techniques slowly. "They really look out for me here. They teach me not just crafts, but how to be smarter with money. They tell me, 'Make sure you have something saved for yourself,'" she explains.
This job has become a crucial part of her strategy not only to support her son's recovery but to prepare for her own future. "I'm learning to set boundaries, to save for my retirement. I used to think it was too late for me to change things, but now I see that every little bit I do here helps," Liu Yun reflects.
Her son’s recovery is still uncertain, but Liu Yun is hopeful. "If he sees me managing my life and money better, maybe he'll realize change is possible," she thinks, her hands steady as she works on another piece, weaving resilience into her life one thread at a time.
