Guest Editorial By Renata Lopez

HONG KONG – A total lack of compassion by some employers of foreign domestic helpers, by the Immigration authorities and by government doctors in this “world city” hits hard for Filipina worker Imelda Galera.

Unfortunately, Ms Galera contracted breast cancer. Then her employers decided against renewing her contract due to her condition. Next the Immigration Department ruled that since she’s no longer a legal resident she’s not entitled to treatment in a government hospital. Finally, the doctors at Queen Elizabeth Hospital showed a similarly callous disregard towards this patient.

As reported in the South China Morning Post newspaper (Helper in battle over cancer bills, October 10), Ms Galera was diagnosed with malignant breast cancer last January while still employed, had surgery and began chemotherapy treatments in May. When her employers didn’t renew her contract, she moved to Bethune House, an NGO-run shelter for dismissed and abused domestics. When her condition worsened recently, she returned to Queen Elizabeth Hospital for more treatment and learned she needed to pay a big sum because she’s no longer a legal resident. Needless to say, she can’t afford it and must rely on donations from friends.

Recently, some of Ms Galera’s friends again accompanied her to the hospital to plead for her to receive treatment, but to no avail. Maybe the doctor in charge would lose his job if he’d shown heart and allowed the treatment.

But wouldn’t it feel wonderful to find someone who cares more for a person in need than for regulations? Of course, that’s an elusive dream. The reality is this sad indictment of Hong Kong and the deplorable treatment of its menials.

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