“To me, as the only child in my family, Harold the Giraffe was not just a toy; he was my great friend, my soulmate, and my constant companion,” confided Yan, an alumna of LEAP whom we met at the Health and Wellness Day @ Lee Tung Avenue, our 30th Anniversary community event last year.
Yan remains a devoted fan of Harold, proudly displaying an impressive collection of Harold merchandise that is evidence of her enduring affection for her childhood friend. Her love for Harold began during her very first LEAP lesson in primary school, when she was captivated by the engaging messages about healthy living and the importance of avoiding harmful substances.
“It was extraordinary and mind-blowing for me! I still remember the model that taught us about different parts of our bodies (TAM) and the interactions with the Harold mascot, which helped us build a foundation for making safe and healthy choices. Of course, like all my classmates, I did wonder how a giraffe could live in a van!”
The plush toy that Yan bought after that memorable LEAP class quickly became her most treasured possession; it was with her throughout her childhood and is still well-loved today. Last year, when Yan heard about a LEAP event on Lee Tung Avenue, she made a special trip to visit her dear friend Harold. Seeing the giant Harold instantly brought back fond memories and inspired her to actively engage in LEAP’s community events, rekindling the connection to the mission that had once guided her.
Excited by this renewed passion, Yan eagerly returned to the latest LEAP mobile classroom during our Charity Run this February, where she was delighted to discover new features aimed at supporting today’s children. Her experiences not only deepened her appreciation for the organisation but also fuelled her desire to contribute to its important work.
“It’s such a meaningful experience, and I hope every child can create beautiful memories in the LEAP mobile classroom just like I did. That’s why I wholeheartedly support LEAP and donate to their cause. I want to ensure that more children have access to this invaluable education,” she continued.
Yan’s journey reflects LEAP’s mission: to deliver health-based preventive education to the children and young people of Hong Kong, equipping them with the essential skills and knowledge needed for a healthy life. Stories like Yan’s, filled with love and a lifelong connection to Harold, remind us of the profound impact we can have—and that we must continue our efforts to reach even more children in the community.
