By Aida Aziz
IPOH: She once accepted invitations to various events as a singer to support her life with her two school-aged daughters.
Despite being amputated in both legs due to a tragic accident and suffering from diabetes, N. Megala, 44, has never given up on providing for her family as the head of her household.
Following the death of her husband nine years ago, Megala admits that she can no longer work as she did before due to deteriorating health.
She can no longer sew as her leg muscles have weakened, and she relies on others for mobility.
The situation worsens as both her children, R. Rineshaa, 15, and R. Ahrrathe, 11, also suffer from diabetes, requiring them to take medication monthly.
Her eldest daughter, Rineshaa, has vision problems in her left eye due to the disease and has been referred to the hospital.
Despite receiving a monthly pension of RM1,200 from the Social Security Organization (Perkeso), Megala says it is insufficient to cover daily expenses, including medications and basic necessities.
“Four years ago, I was in an accident with a lorry. I had diabetes, and my right leg couldn’t be saved and was amputated above the knee.
“Then, my left leg got infected and had to be amputated above the knee.
“I have no income because I cannot work and depend solely on Perkeso assistance from my late husband.
“The prosthetic leg I received through donations is no longer usable because my muscles are too weak and prone to infection due to diabetes.
“Even though I am amputated on both legs, I continue to work by accepting invitations to sing at events and weddings, using a prosthetic leg or wheelchair,” she said when met at her rented home at No 6, Lorong Anandoo, Buntong.
She, who also holds a disability card, now lives in the rented house with a monthly payment of RM650.
She says the house is ideally located to help her children walk to school and for her to travel to the hospital.
When asked about other assistance, she said she had applied to the Perak Department of Social Welfare (JKM).
However, her application was unsuccessful because it was understood that she was ineligible to apply if she was already receiving government aid such as from Perkeso.
“The Perkeso pension is not enough. I have applied for JKM assistance several times, including through the Buntong State Assemblyman, but was not successful.
“Appeals have also been rejected because they said I already receive government assistance from Perkeso.
“The Buntong Assemblyman has provided food packages to help ease our burden,” she added.
When food supplies run low, Megala said family, neighbors, and acquaintances help by providing donations.
“As long as I have the strength to earn a living, I will continue to do so, but my current health condition does not permit me.
“If possible, I request JKM to reconsider my application for some assistance so that I can cover our expenses.
“Additionally, our water and electricity bills are overdue and have been cut off. I cannot afford to pay them and rely on friends for help. I would not ask for help from others if it weren’t for such desperate circumstances.
“For our diabetes medication, which costs around RM200 a month, I also need supplies of milk and diapers,” she said.
For those who wish to offer assistance or have further inquiries, Megala can be contacted at 017-8652284.
