Risty (centre) with her family at her home in Kuala Baram, Miri.
Suffering from a congenital heart defect, nine-year-old Risty Anak Febry from Sarawak is hoping surgery will allow her to return to a normal childhood.
The Year Three pupil enjoys cycling, reading and watching Upin & Ipin.
Risty was only six when her doctor detected a needle-sized hole in her heart, known as a large atrial septal defect.
Over the last two years, she was unable to go for regular hospital check-ups because of the Covid-19 pandemic and the movement control order.
Last month, Risty was finally referred to the National Heart Institute (IJN) in Kuala Lumpur for treatment and surgery to close the hole in her heart.
Her mother, Juana Anak Giring, 28, is a single parent who does odd jobs, such as cleaning houses and babysitting.
Juana receives monthly government aid of RM300 while Risty’s grandfather, Giling Anak Renang, 72, who works as a security guard, occasionally helps out.
They cannot afford the surgery and treatment, which will cost around RM40,000.
Juana is praying that Good Samaritans will come to their aid.
“We are sad as Risty has always been a bright child who loves to play.
“We hope she will be able to become healthy and active again,” said Juana, who has another child.
Star Foundation’s Medical Fund Programme is helping to raise funds for Risty’s surgery and treatment at IJN.
The public can channel donations to the programme’s Public Bank account (31-9984-9230) via bank transfer.
Donations can also be given via cheque and credit or debit card.
Excess funds will be used for the next eligible patient.
To get a tax exemption receipt, donors need to fill in the Medical Fund Donation Form available on the foundation’s website.
Star Foundation, the charitable arm of Star Media Group, aims to support impactful initiatives to help a diverse group of beneficiaries.
The Medical Fund Programme was initiated in 2015 to help underprivileged individuals suffering from chronic illnesses by sponsoring one-off medical treatment and care.
For details, visit starfoundation.com.my or email starfoundation@thestar.com.my
