KUCHING: Hope Place Kuching has extended aid to a family in Kampung Kudei after the husband’s genetic blood disorder led to ongoing health complications.
In a statement by Hope Place yesterday (Jan 5), the non-governmental organisation visited the family following a request for help from the wife, Marinda Ayup, 42, who had been struggling to cope with mounting responsibilities at home.
Her husband, Malek, 44, has thalassemia, a genetic blood disorder that requires him to undergo monthly blood transfusions at the hospital
“With limited education and restricted physical capacity, he is unable to take on heavy work and relies on occasional odd jobs within the village to earn an income.
“Earning about RM800 per month, Malek is unable to fully feed his family of nine people,” it said.
The couple has five school-going children aged between six and 18, while Malek’s 85-year-old mother, who has dementia, also lives with them and requires daily care.
In addition, Malek’s brother, Alias, 58, who stays in the same household, suffers from severe thalassemia.
“Worse than Malek, Alias seldom moves, due to very weak body and lack of energy. He also has a yellowish complexion,” it said.
With Malek and Alias unable to work, Marinda has taken on the role of primary caregiver for the family.
She also attempts to supplement the household income by selling homemade doughnuts door-to-door in the village.
Hope Place said that Marinda had previously tried selling by the roadside near her home but had to stop due to the lack of a permit to operate a stall.
“With so much burden on her shoulders, Marinda welcomes any assistance she can get.
“The organisation is currently supporting the household with basic food aid to help ease their immediate needs,” it said.
Those who wish to help can reach out to Hope Place, also known as Persatuan Kebajikan Harapan Kuching (PKHK), at 082-505987 or 013-5672775.
For individuals or organisations wishing to contribute, donations can be made via bank transfer to MBB: 511289001160 or go to Hope Place facebook page to get Sarawak Pay / S PAY GLOBAL QR code.
