Interview with Cho Mui Yee, immigrant from China 2004

An interview [translated] with Cho Mui Yee, who came to Edmonton from China in 1985.

How old are you?


Eighty-four.


When did you come to Canada?


1985.


Where did you live?


I lived in Castledowns.


Where did you live before?


I was born in the province of Canton and immigrated with my son who came to work here in Canada.


Why did you come to Edmonton?


In June 2003, I fell and hurt my arm and because my son and daughter-in-law were often out of the province, I applied to move into the seniors’ lodge.


Did you have fears of coming to Canada?


I had no fears, but I couldn’t speak English and my son had been supporting me for the last 10 years. Now, I am receiving senior’s pension.


Have you been happy since you came?


I enjoy living in Canada, but still return to China every year. Last year, I came back in April because of the fear of SARS.


Do hove any regrets about coming to Edmonton?


In general, I like Canada very much. I think the weather is very good: not too cold and not too hot.


Do you have a special memory/story?


I was hospitalized when I fell and hurt myself. The medical staff was wonderful and treated me very well. The staff at the seniors’ lodge is very helpful. They would feed those who have difficulties feeding themselves. For those who have difficulties moving around, they would help them get around.


Why do you like Edmonton?


I had immigrated in 1975 and lived in Toronto at the time. I didn’t like there: it was too cold; I felt bored and couldn’t even read a Chinese newspaper. At that time, Toronto didn’t have Chinese TV and I had no one to play mah jong with either. So I went back to Hong Kong in 1977. I applied for immigration again in 1985 and came to Edmonton. Compared to Toronto, I like Edmonton very much.