GEORGE TOWN: Life will never be the same for Tan Hooi Ling since an acid attack 15 years ago.
The 2009 incident not only disfigured the 32-year-old flower seller's face but now threatens her vision completely.
Hooi Ling has been experiencing blurry vision in her left eye for over a year after going blind in her right eye since the attack.
The youngest of two siblings, Hooi Ling remains positive and grateful for the support around her.
Recalling the incident, she said she was sleeping with her mother when she felt a burning sensation on her face and body. Unaware of what had happened, the two writhed in pain before being taken to Penang General Hospital for treatment.
"My mother suffered severe injuries and ingested the acid, leading to her death. My father is now being treated at Hospital Bahagia Ulu Kinta in Tanjung Rambutan, Perak, after being diagnosed with mental issues.
"It was only later that I learned my father had poured acid on my mother, and it splashed onto me," she told Harian Metro.
Hooi Ling said the attack happened about a month before her SPM exams.
As a result, she underwent three months of treatment in the hospital and took her SPM exams while enduring burns on her face, shoulders, arms, and legs.
"Since the incident, I've had six surgeries on my face and affected areas at an overseas hospital, with costs covered by former Jelutong MP Jeff Ooi.
"Although my face isn't the same as before, I'm grateful for the chance to live and for the care from my brother and uncle," said Hooi Ling, who remains single.
After recovering, Hooi Ling pursued studies at a private college and worked as an accountant. However, she resigned from her job of over six years due to worsening vision in her left eye.
Uncertain if the blurred vision is a delayed effect of the acid, Hooi Ling finds it challenging to complete computer-based work.
"Since working at the flower shop, I feel calm and happy, enjoying the beautiful flowers daily with less work stress.
"I live with my brother and have long forgiven my father, which has brought peace to my life.
"I'm not thinking about a life partner yet; I currently prefer travelling with close friends who have been steadfast.
"I hope others in similar situations accept their circumstances and always cherish this second chance at life," she said.
Previously, it was reported that Hooi Ling and her mother, Cheong Swee Lin, 50, were attacked with acid by her father while they were sleeping due to a dispute between her parents at their home on Jalan Tan Sri Teh Ewe Lim, Jelutong at 3am.
As a result, Cheong, who suffered burns on 80 per cent of her body, died nine hours later, while Hooi Ling sustained injuries to her face and several parts of her body.