4 days ago
Private-hire driver who worked 15-hour shifts 'for my kids' dies of stroke
To support his 13-year-old daughter and 17-year-old son, a 49-year-old private-hire driver worked between 13 and 15 hours daily.
According to a Facebook post, Mr Gavin Neo, who died from a stroke on May 29, was the sole breadwinner of the family.
He would begin his shift in the afternoon and continue until the next day, ending his drive by taking his daughter to school in the morning.
"The same cycle repeated with no time for himself," his friend Bryan Ang wrote.
He fondly remembered having suppers with Mr Neo at a coffee shop in town, where they had the "cheapest food".
Mr Neo would refuel himself with a plate of $3.80 chicken rice and a can of Red Bull Energy Drink before heading back to work.
Mr Ang recalled asking Mr Neo why he skimped on food when he worked tirelessly, to which he replied that it was to save "for my kids and their future".
When Shin Min Daily News visited the wake on May 30, Mr Neo's sister said that the family found it difficult to accept her brother's sudden passing.
"We appreciate the support on the Internet, but we hope everyone can give us some space during this difficult time," she said.
It was reported that Mr Neo's daughter was abroad with her mother and had not returned for the funeral.
On Facebook, Mr Neo's relationship status is set to "divorced".
His son, who was present, politely declined to speak to the reporter.
The funeral was held on May 31, and Mr Neo was cremated at Mandai Crematorium.
