From the Thrill of My Big Bad Ride to the Tranquillity of Resin - My Unique Escape
Hobbies are essential for relaxation and personal growth, especially in my fast-paced role as an Emergency Nurse. Since joining the Emergency Department (ED) in 2018, I’ve faced countless high-pressure situations—caring for critically ill patients and navigating challenging interactions. To manage these demands, I've turned to hobbies that bring balance and joy to destress.
That's me in the middle, with my supportive colleagues at work!
One of my most cherished hobbies is motorcycle riding. Riding my Ducati gives me a sense of freedom and adventure. Riding my Ducati has been a passion for over a decade, and while I’ve had my fair share of accidents along the way, I always prioritise safety. Wearing the right gear—like a full-face helmet, riding jacket, pants, boots, and gloves—is non-negotiable when I hit the road.
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Before the pandemic, my favourite rides were touring adventures to Malaysia and Thailand, where I explored new landscapes and soaked in the thrill of the journey. However, the closure of borders during COVID-19 put those long rides on hold, and my touring adventures came to a halt.
The pandemic brought unprecedented challenges to the Emergency Department, with patient numbers climbing into the hundreds daily. It was during this stressful time that I also experienced a personal loss—the passing of my beloved dog, Ted. Searching for a way to preserve his belongings as keepsakes, I stumbled upon resin crafting, which quickly became a meaningful and therapeutic outlet.
My first creation was a hairclip for my daughter, and since then, I’ve crafted keepsakes, coasters, and festive pieces. Resin crafting is meditative, requiring focus on intricate steps like mixing and pouring, which provides a calming escape from stress.
One of my proudest creations is a Beauty and the Beast trinket tray. This intricate project required two full days of painting the silicone mold and allowing it to dry before pouring the resin solution. After 24 hours of curing, the final piece was a stunning work of art that continues to bring me pride and joy.
Every completed resin project, no matter how small, brings me a deep sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. Each piece reflects not just creativity but also resilience, helping me recharge and tackle life’s challenges with a renewed perspective.
Through resin crafting and motorcycle riding, I have found hobbies that not only help me destress but also enrich my life, allowing me to express myself and cherish the beauty of creativity.
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​Lastly, I’m grateful for the support of my colleagues and friends, who help us pull through challenges together.
Story written by:
Jerryboy Cheng
Senior Staff Nurse, Emergency Department, NTFGH
