Fulfilling dreams beyond ADHD

KUCHING: “I have two goals in life – to be like Cristiano Ronaldo and to do flower arrangement,” Scott said with a smile.

Meet Scott Voon, a 12-year-old boy diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), who has two passions that define his life goals – football and flower arrangement.

With his big, sparkling eyes, sharp nose, and striking facial features, Scott carefully envisions and places each flower, using needles from his craft box to pin them onto the base.

His hands bring to life a masterpiece of creatively and beautifully arranged flowers, which he proudly presents to anyone passing by.

At the age of seven or eight, Scott joined Pertubuhan Pemulihan Dalam Komuniti Sentuhan Kasih Kuching (PPDKSKK), a non-profit organization dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities (OKU) become independent and adaptable in society.

PPDKSKK officers express joy and pride in witnessing Scott’s growth and the discovery of his talents.

Although Scott is aware of his diagnosis, he confidently shares his journey.

“My friends ask me what’s wrong with me, and I tell them I have ADHD, but now I understand how to better control my emotions and actions,” he shared during an interview with New Sarawak Tribune at Timberland Medical Centre’s ‘Colors of Hope’ event on March 1.

For Scott, flower arrangement is both an art and a strategy.

“It’s not easy, but it’s not hard, and I enjoy it. I use my brain and strategy to come up with ideas, and then I just do it. Of course, I need to be careful with the needles because sometimes I accidentally poke myself,” he shared.

Looking ahead, he hopes to turn his passion into a business by taking personal pre-orders for his flowers.

“When the time comes, I hope to sell my flowers. People can place orders through my parents, and I will arrange them,” he said.

In addition to his nimble fingers, Scott has a strong, well-built physique and hopes to become like the famous Portuguese footballer, Cristiano Ronaldo.

“I play football and have participated in several competitions where I managed to score,” he expressed.

Scott has also brought pride to the state by winning second place in the 100-meter track event at the Special Olympics last year.

PPDKSKK officer Florence commends Scott’s talents in both flower arrangement and sports, and she hopes he can continue to participate in the upcoming Special Olympics.

“Scott is very talented in flower arrangement and sports. He represented the Kuching chapter and won silver in the 100-meter track event at the Special Olympics. We hope to further train him and take him to Miri this year to compete,” she said.

In addition to football and running, Scott also enjoys bowling, showcasing his diverse interests and talents.

“He hasn’t won any bowling competitions, but he participates and enjoys it,” Florence said.

Scott, like any other child, refuses to let his ADHD diagnosis hinder his dreams.
His school days are filled with learning different subjects, and he has discovered his proficiency in languages.

“I’m very good at languages. I can speak English, Chinese, Bahasa Melayu, and a bit of Spanish,” he said.

Established in April 2018, PPDKSKK aims to provide therapy and rehabilitation for individuals with disabilities (OKU). The organization caters to individuals with speech, physical, vision, hearing, and learning challenges, offering three recovery programs for various age groups.

PPDKSKK strives to create awareness, foster acceptance, and eliminate discrimination against OKUs in society, allowing them to lead fulfilling lives within the community. Scott exemplifies this vision as he defies conventional norms and overcomes obstacles.

Scott shows off the flowers he arranged.

Scott shows off the flowers he arranged.

Scott shows off the flowers he arranged.