Malaysian NGO seeking help for little boy Shao Heng who needs gastrostomy surgery and born with congenital genetic defects
Shao Heng is a 5-year-old boy who has been part of the Malaysian NGO organisation family since he was just a month old in 2020. Over the past few years, the NGO has walked alongside him, through every challenge, never giving up.
He was born with multiple complex medical conditions, including:
- Cerebral palsy (due to an underlying genetic disorder)
- Cyanotic congenital heart disease (Tetralogy of Fallot) with pulmonary atresia and collateral vessels
- Severe developmental delay, along with swallowing and feeding difficulties
- Despite all this, Shao Heng continues to warm every heart with his radiant smile. His strength and optimism inspire us every single day.
Long-Term Feeding Tube Has Caused Complications – Surgery Urgently Needed
Since birth, Shao Heng has relied on a nasogastric (NG) tube for feeding due to his inability to swallow.
After five years of NG tube use, he has begun to suffer frequent fevers and has been diagnosed with multiple complications, including:
Feeding difficulties , Poor nutrient absorption , Increased risk of infection
Doctors now strongly recommend a Percutaneous Gastrostomy – a surgical procedure that allows him to receive nutrition directly through the stomach. This would allow Shao Heng to live more safely and comfortably.
Due to his serious heart condition, the surgery must be conducted with great care, under the supervision of specialized anesthetic and surgical teams, to ensure his safety.
Persatuan Kebajikan Sayap Kasih Malaysia Urgently Need RM30,000 for Surgery and Medical Costs
"Time is running out. We are doing everything we can to raise RM30,000 for Shao Heng's life-changing surgery and medical care," said the NGO.
"This procedure will give him a chance to grow in better health so that he will no longer suffer from feeding complications, infections, and pain."
"In this difficult moment, we sincerely invite Malaysians to join hands with us."
" Your support is not just a kind gesture — it is a lifeline. Together, we can give Shao Heng the fighting chance he deserves ," added the NGO.
The statement also said: "We hope that kind-hearted individuals can contribute generously to assist Little Shao Heng. Thank you."
Those who wish to know more about the patient situation can contact the person in charge Ms SUSAN NG at 014-3323960 or email susanng@gmail.com on behalf of Persatuan Kebajikan Sayap Kasih Malaysia.
The NGO office in Jalan Gasing is open for visits daily from Monday to Saturday (10am till 6pm).
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
BusinessToday
13 hours ago
- BusinessToday
Why Dementia Deserves More Attention in Malaysia
Forgetfulness is often seen as a normal part of ageing, but dementia is a serious medical condition—and it's affecting Malaysians earlier and more frequently than many realise. Consultant neurologists are raising the alarm: lifestyle factors such as hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol are key contributors, and changes need to begin long before symptoms appear. Globally, more than 55 million people are living with dementia—a figure expected to rise to 78 million by 2030, according to the World Health Organisation. In Malaysia, where nearly 16% of the population is aged 60 and above, local studies estimate over 200,000 people are affected. However, due to limited awareness and screening, the true number is likely much higher. Recognising the Difference Between Dementia and Normal Ageing Many people assume that misplacing objects or repeating stories is just part of getting older. But Dr Mohamad Imran bin Idris, Consultant Neurologist at Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway City, explains that dementia involves more significant cognitive decline. 'When someone can no longer manage daily tasks like cooking, handling finances, or holding a coherent conversation, that's when dementia should be suspected,' he said. He adds that while some slowing of memory is typical with age, dementia goes further, impacting language, decision-making, and even the ability to recognise familiar faces. Importantly, Alzheimer's disease is just one form of dementia. In Malaysia, vascular dementia—caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, often linked to chronic conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes—is also common. 'Age is a risk factor we cannot change,' Dr Imran said, 'but vascular risks are manageable. By controlling blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar early, we can lower the risk of developing dementia.' Understanding Different Forms of Dementia It is important to recognise that Alzheimer's disease is only one form of dementia. Dr Mohamad Imran bin Idris stresses that dementia is an umbrella term, and in Malaysia, vascular dementia is also common. This form results from reduced blood flow to the brain, often following a stroke or linked to chronic conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes. With the high prevalence of hypertension, high cholesterol, smoking, and diabetes in Malaysia, vascular dementia presents a significant health risk. 'Age is a risk factor we cannot change,' Dr Imran explains, 'but vascular risks are manageable. Early control of blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar can reduce the chance of developing dementia.' Younger people are not immune to the condition, either. Dementia is frequently dismissed as normal ageing or depression, but Dr Imran points out cases of early-onset dementia in individuals as young as their 30s and 40s. 'We've seen patients showing early signs—often after strokes or years of untreated chronic illness,' he said. Dementia can develop quietly over decades, with brain damage accumulating well before symptoms become apparent. This misconception that dementia only affects the elderly often delays diagnosis and treatment, highlighting the need for greater awareness. The Power of Sleep, Social Connection, and Mental Variety While diet and exercise are known to benefit brain health, Dr Imran highlights sleep as a crucial, yet neglected, factor. 'There's a tendency to glorify late nights and little rest, but poor sleep has a bigger impact on brain health than most people realise,' he said. He also stresses the importance of social interaction. 'Spontaneous conversation exercises your brain in ways that repetitive games don't,' he explained. Games like Sudoku or chess offer some benefit, but overused digital games often fail to challenge the brain over time. 'Your brain thrives on novelty, not routine.' Caring for the Caregivers Caring for a loved one with dementia can take a significant emotional and physical toll on families. Dr Mohamad Imran bin Idris, Consultant Neurologist at Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway City, warns that without proper support, caregivers risk becoming unwell themselves. 'We risk having two unwell individuals instead of one—the patient and the caregiver,' he said. Establishing routines, such as regular walks in the park or scheduled visits, can offer a sense of predictability and comfort for the person with dementia. Dr Imran also highlights the value of dementia-focused daycare centres, which provide structured, safe environments for patients while giving caregivers a much-needed break. At the heart of care, however, lies empathy. Dr Imran shared the poignant example of actor Gene Hackman, who reportedly lived with severe Alzheimer's and, following his wife's passing, remained trapped in a cycle of confusion—unable to comprehend her absence but continuing to care for her. 'People with dementia live only in the present moment,' he explained. 'They can't access the past or plan ahead. That can be frightening, especially when they feel isolated.' His message is simple but powerful: treat people with dementia with compassion. 'They may not remember your name,' he said, 'but they'll remember how you made them feel.' Emerging Treatments and the Hope of Prevention Though dementia has long been seen as an irreversible decline, hope is emerging. 'Two years ago, treatment options were limited,' Dr Imran says, 'but now medicines can slow progression. We are entering a new era.' Advances in screening—from digital assessments to blood tests detecting early brain changes—are becoming more accessible, though genetic testing should be considered carefully and only when medically indicated. Prevention Starts in Your 40s Dr Imran encourages Malaysians to take brain health seriously from midlife. 'Control your blood pressure, stay socially engaged, prioritise sleep, and eat a balanced diet. These aren't just lifestyle tips—they're investments in your brain's future,' he said. His message is clear: dementia is not inevitable, and it is not just a concern for the elderly. 'If we protect our hearts to prevent heart attacks, why don't we do the same for our brains?' Related
New Straits Times
14 hours ago
- New Straits Times
Health Ministry, Google explore AI to enhance healthcare system
KUALA LUMPUR: The Health Ministry and Google are exploring a new partnership on using artificial intelligence (AI) to tackle some of Malaysia's most pressing health challenges. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad described the initiative as a potential game-changer. "It is still in its early days, but we are very enthusiastic about this partnership to improve the lives of all Malaysians," he said, adding that both parties share a common aspiration to use AI to improve health outcomes at scale. This was during the minister's keynote speech at the Precision Public Health Asia 2025 Conference in Petaling Jaya today. Dzulkefly said that the vision is to innovate and deliver real health value, positioning Malaysia as a regional leader in healthcare transformation. The minister said the transformative potential of data and personalisation in healthcare, pointing out how major tech firms have already mastered personalised engagement. "But what if we use the same tools to nudge healthier behaviours adapted to the right host, for the right individuals?" he asked. Dzulkefly also said that embracing AI is no longer a luxury but a necessity due to global economic turbulence, high budgets, and widening health disparities. To that end, he said the ministry is actively pushing the precision public health agenda, revealing that the cloud-based clinical management system (CCMS) is now in use at 156 clinics nationwide, and that 70 per cent of patients are seen within 30 minutes. The ministry is also pushing ahead with electronic medical records (EMR) reform. "Today, five million Malaysians can access their prescriptions, three million have their screening records available, one million have their dental records on file, and more than 20 million can view their vaccination history," he said. During the press conference, Digital Health Division director Dr Mahesh Apannan said the cooperation with partners such as Google reflects a commitment to harnessing existing capacities and capabilities. Mahesh said, with Google, the ministry aims to leverage their expertise and capabilities to enhance its own capacity. He added that the shift towards cloud-based systems has allowed the ministry to integrate existing algorithms into its system.
Barnama
15 hours ago
- Barnama
Dementia Isn't Just Old Age Forgetfulness, It's A Fast-Growing Silent Epidemic
KUALA LUMPUR, July 16 (Bernama) – Dementia, which often begins subtly, like a forgotten name, a repeated story, a misplaced item, isn't just old age forgetfulness. In Malaysia, with nearly 16 per cent of its population aged 60 and above, this silent epidemic is growing faster than most realise, driven by an ageing population and widespread chronic illnesses like diabetes and high blood pressure. Local studies suggest over 200,000 Malaysians are living with dementia, and the figure is likely underestimated due to low awareness and limited screening. Globally, dementia affects more than 55 million people, and the World Health Organization (WHO) predicts this number will reach 78 million by 2030. Dr Mohamad Imran Idris, Consultant Neurologist at Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway City, in a statement today, said that 'When someone can no longer perform tasks, they once managed easily, such as cooking, managing finances, holding a conversation, that's when we begin to suspect dementia.' He explained that while slower memory and reduced mental agility can come with age, dementia is different. 'The hallmark of dementia isn't just forgetfulness. It is when thinking skills interfere with daily life -language, judgement, even recognising familiar faces. That is when it is time to get help,' he said. He also clarified a common confusion between dementia and Alzheimer's, saying that the latter is just one type of dementia. 'Dementia is an umbrella term. Alzheimer's is the most well-known, but in Malaysia, vascular dementia, caused by impaired blood flow to the brain, often after a stroke or due to chronic conditions like high blood pressure, is also very common,' he said.
