The pandemic situation is making it even worse for a couple who have made countless efforts to cover the expenses for the treatment of their daughter’s cancer.
Fifteen-year-old Natasha Mohamad Haszemi from Kampung Sungai Rambutan, Rantau Panjang in Selama has to undergo a stem cell transplant in Kuala Lumpur to save her life.
The teen was diagnosed with blood cancer in 2015 and was treated before her pain recurred last October and she had to undergo intensive chemotherapy treatment again.
Her mother, Zaiton Awang, 45, said the treatment was able to be carried out due to the compatibility of stem cells between Natasha and her brother.
However, she said, the family’s financial resources depend on her husband, Mohd. Haszemi Mat Isa, who only works in the village but is currently facing difficulty in doing so due to the pandemic.
“Every week, Natasha has to attend an appointment at Penang Hospital before she starts the transplant treatment at Ampang Hospital scheduled for August 27.
“Natasha is also dependent on medicines but fortunately it is funded by the National Cancer Council,” she said.
The treatment period will take four months including intensive treatment as well as continuous appointments at the same hospital twice a week.
Meanwhile, Natasha’s condition caught the attention of the Chairperson of the Friend of Childhood Cancer Northern-M (FOCCAN), Maznah Tayib, who visited and presented donations.
Anyone who wishes to help Natasha can donate via the Maybank account 158211717050 under her father’s name, Mohamad Haszemi Mat Isa.
Any inquiries to help can be made by contacting FOCCAN at 016-5681 640.
Rosli Mansor
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