KUCHING: In Kuching, a family is fighting against overwhelming odds as baby Nur Aafiya Aulia, born with severe health conditions, battles for her life.
Hope Place Kuching has offered crucial support to her father, struggling to make ends meet, and her mother, who provides round-the-clock care.
According to a media statement, Nur Aafiya Aulia Zul Fazly, who cannot cry or speak, suffers a swollen head, kidney issues, lung disease, and deformed legs, rendering her bedridden and dependent on respiratory support to breathe and a feeding tube for sustenance.
In late 2024, Aafiya underwent critical brain surgery to remove excess fluid from her head and another operation on her spine due to a vertebral abnormality.
But, she remains critical, requiring frequent hospital visits and ongoing care from a team of more than seven specialists.
Her father, Zul Fazly, 35, sells economy rice at the Emart Matang night market, while her mother, Afarhani, stays home to care for Aafiya.
The family’s struggles are compounded by the ill health of Aafiya’s older sister, 14-year-old Nurmala, who suffers from a chronic lung condition that forced her to drop out of school and was hospitalised for a week due to complications, while her other sister is healthy.
The family moved to Kuching from Sri Aman to ensure Aafiya could receive the necessary medical attention, but financial strain has taken a toll.
“My ‘nasi bajet’ (economy rice) is slow, and money is always a struggle,” Zul shared with Hope Place, who remains hopeful that this Ramadan will bring more customers to his stall.
Aafiya received her disability card from the Social Welfare Department recently but her family hopes for further assistance.
Meanwhile, Hope Place has provided essential supplies, including baby formula and diapers.
Hope Place Kuching (Persatuan Kebajikan Harapan Kuching) is urging the community to lend a helping hand.
Those who wish to contribute can reach out at 082-505 987 or 013-567 2775.
Donations are accepted via Maybank account 5112 8900 1160, with receipts available upon request.
Additional details, including the Sarawak Pay / S PAY GLOBAL QR code for contributions, can be found on their Facebook page.
