A female gambler who embezzled company funds served five years in prison. After her release, her gambling addiction worsened, even losing all of her mother's savings. It wasn't until a reprimand from her sister finally brought her back to reality, and with the help of a gambling rehabilitation center, she reformed her ways.
Aying (pseudonym), 55, recalled that she first encountered baccarat and blackjack on a gambling ship in 1997 and became addicted. After the casino opened, she became even more engrossed, losing all her savings and then embezzling company funds.
"At the time, I was blinded by my addiction and felt no fear whatsoever. Looking back now, I still feel very guilty, after all, I betrayed the company's trust of many years and stole a huge sum of money—millions of yuan."
After her crimes were exposed, Ah Ying filed for bankruptcy and was sentenced to prison, feeling lost and uncertain about the future. Five years later, she was released but, unable to find work, attempted to make quick money through online gambling. She not only stole her mother's savings but also lost them all and got involved with loan sharks.
"When my sister found out, she berated me, saying I hadn't changed even after going to jail, and threatened me: 'I'll give you two choices: one, pay with your life; two, seek help.'"
Having regained her confidence, Ah Ying has successfully quit gambling for three years and has found a new job. Besides continuing to volunteer at the gambling rehabilitation center, she also visits prisons to encourage inmates with her experience.
Ah Ying frankly admits that the person she is most grateful to is her husband, who has been like an angel sent by God to her for the past 29 years, never abandoning her. She also hates herself for her past weakness, which repeatedly hurt him.
Now, Ah Ying has repaid all of her 90-year-old mother's savings, proving through her actions that she will not repeat her mistakes, and has also repaired her relationship with her sister.
The Meng En Social Services gambling rehabilitation center holds bilingual (Chinese and English) gatherings every Tuesday evening, with about 70 gamblers, former gamblers, and their families attending each time to exchange ideas.
For more details, please call the hotline 84286377.
For the full report, please refer to the May 25, 2026 edition of *Shin Min Daily News*.