When Lau Kim-hung suffered a stroke in 2004, he was 48. The illness left him paralysed on the right side of his body, and even today, at the age of 64, he still cannot hold a pen. “My condition was bad,” the father of one said. Despite that, the former businessman decided he had to hang in there. At first he used a quad cane to help him walk, but through continuous exercise he achieved better balance. Lau subsequently weaned himself off a tripod or a straight cane, about three years after his stroke. He said he was grateful for the support he had received from many people, especially his family. And in return, he said he wanted to use his experiences rehabilitating to help fellow Hongkongers affected by a stroke to get back on their feet. Lau joined The Hong Kong Stroke Association, a patient group, in 2006, and has since organised a diverse range of activities for thousands of patients on their journey recovering from a stroke. In addition to singing sessions aimed at helping survivors living with aphasia to find their voice, Lau has launched yoga and tai chi classes. He said he believed these physical activities could help survivors to preserve muscle strength and improve balance. “Some of the participants have shown remarkable improvement in physical functions,” he said. “We felt so happy.” Lau’s work has earned him a nomination for a Spirit of Hong Kong award. The annual event, co-organised by the South China Morning Post and property developer Sino Group, recognises remarkable people whose accomplishments may go unnoticed. Edith Mok at Hong Kong Society for Rehabilitation, recommended him for the Spirit of Community award, which honours individuals who dedicate their time and energy to help, serve and make a positive impact on their community or those in need. Helping needy and preserving yum cha culture one dim sum piece at a time Lau headed The Hong Kong Stroke Association from 2011 to 2015, before running for president again in 2017. He will hold the office until next year. The association serves members, including stroke patients and their families, across the city. Lau said the patient group had put a lot of work into advancing members’ welfare by working with health authorities. “Our work complements the public health service,” he said. Under his leadership, the association provides training for volunteers and organises visits to stroke patients staying in hospital. The stroke survivor noted the importance of providing emotional support to carers as well as patients. “I always chat with patients and their families,” he said. “We share our experiences over the phone. I am so happy that I can help.”