On the road to recovery

Nur Syuhada has stopped having seizures after the surgery, made possible by the Star Foundation’s Medical Fund programme.

A SEVEN-YEAR-OLD girl underwent her second surgery to control her seizures thanks to donors of Star Foundation’s Medical Fund programme.

Nur Syuhada Sharen’s first surgery in 2015 saw the frequency of her epileptic seizures reduced from between 20 and 30 to about five or six times a day.

Despite taking anticonvulsant medication, her condition since birth had caused developmental delay and slower personal management.

Following her second surgery on June 3, Nur Syuhada has stopped getting seizures.

“She used to have seizures in her sleep and in the mornings.

“Now, that has stopped. Her speech has also improved — she is now able to express herself clearly, ” said her mother, Siti Zubaidah Abdul Halil, 42.

With three other school-going children aged between 10 and 16, and both husband and wife holding full-time jobs, Nur Syuhada’s parents hope she can live a normal life.

“Only my husband and I were at the hospital to keep Nur Syuhada company. The other children stayed in Melaka with my parents.

“We were worried during the surgery, but we look forward to seeing her be independent in life.

“She is well now and has even asked to watch her favourite ‘Didi & Friends’ videos, ” said Siti Zubaidah.

Nur Syuhada’s family thanked all donors, the team at Ara Damansara Medical Centre (ADMC) and Star Foundation for the positive outcome from the surgery.

“We deeply appreciate all the financial and medical support given to us throughout. ADMC staff have made Nur Syuhada’s surgery and stay incredibly pleasant.

“We hope that our daughter’s case will serve as an example and other parents are made aware of such an option if necessary, ” said Siti Zubaidah.

Representatives of ADMC also expressed their gratitude to kind donors and Star Foundation whose efforts and contributions made the surgery possible, offering Nur Syuhada a new lease of life.

She has since been discharged and will have to be present for follow-ups at the Paediatric Neurology Department at Hospital Kuala Lumpur.

The surgery and convalescence expenses cost about RM44,000.

Established in 2004, Star Foundation is the charitable arm of Star Media Group and is aimed at delivering meaningful initiatives with lasting outcomes to a diverse group of beneficiaries.

The Medical Fund programme was started in 2015 to help underprivileged individuals suffering from chronic illnesses by sponsoring one-off medical treatment and care.

For details, visit starfoundation.com.my.