I was at work when my brother rang and broke the news to me. In fact, I was burying my nose under the most complicated spreadsheet in the world (given that Maths was my least favourtie subject in school) when I heard his deep voice, saying that Granddad has just passed away.
I only found out that Granddad was admitted to the hospital again yesterday and although my mum didn’t sound very optimistic about his situation, I wasn’t expecting things to move on so quickly. He hasn’t really been himself for quite some time now and once in a while, I received the news about him being admitted to hospital. However, it was strange to receive the news while I was at work. I didn’t know how to react to this news and I still don’t.
Most of my friends know that I am not exactly close to my father’s side of the family, but my granddad was always the most interesting one. According to my Grandmum, he led a legendary life when he was in his youth, being one of Lee Rock’s close associates. There was also a rumour that Ng Man Tat’s character in the movie was based loosely on him! I have no idea whether this is true or not and I guess there is no way to find out now. I only know that Granddad was put into a mental institute in the 70’s - some said that he had a nervous breakdown while others suggested that he was just pretending so as to avoid the ICAC (Independent Commission Against Corruption) investigation. Again, the truth will stay with him now.