It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of our CEO, Dr Sylvia Sham, on Saturday evening, 10th December 2016, after a short illness with cancer.
Life can be like a long-distance race, where patience and endurance with small beginnings grow into bigger visions. Sylvia ran this race. She poured so much of herself into seeing Wai Yin Society services expand, reaching more and more people, regardless of background and culture. Last year, she received the “Spirit of Manchester Awards 2015: Contribution to the sector Award” for her committed work, which has made a huge difference to the lives of so many in Greater Manchester.
Sylvia (front, centre) with Jenny Tsang (left), Mark Greenwood (rear) and Lisa Mok (right)
However, Sylvia’s race did not stop as far as the office or meeting rooms. She ran the Manchester 10K in 2015, rallying our Wai Yin team together. She encouraged us daily to run our race and win. She spent her final precious moments in ‘Amazing Grace’, her favourite song being sung and played on guitar for her.
Sylvia always ran her race with grace, unlimited energy and laughter. Her life, laughter and positive spirit will never end in our hearts.
Sylvia with Mr Afzal Khan, MEP for North West England
Our beloved hero, Dr Sylvia Sham.