Chaw (left) and former Menglembu assemblyman Lim Pek Har (right) will help collect and manage the donations received for Winnie’s post-surgery treatment, seen sitting on Lew’s lap while Wong stands behind. — RONNIE CHIN/The Star
THE family of an eight-year-old girl, who has a malignant tumour just below her right knee, is appealing for public donations to cover the cost of her post-surgery treatment.
Housewife Lew Sook Kuan, 32, said her daughter Winnie Wong, who was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer, needs about RM250,000 for chemotherapy sessions and follow-up treatment after the surgery to remove the tumour at UM Specialist Centre (UMSC) in Kuala Lumpur which will be held tomorrow.
Lew, whose husband Wong Shyh Jye, 35, is a lorry driver, said the cost for the surgery would be covered by insurance.
“She has already undergone two sessions of chemotherapy, which was also borne by insurance, but subsequent sessions and follow-up treatments will not be covered as the RM200,000 limit has been used up,” she said in a press conference held by Menglembu assemblyman Steven Chaw at her home in Taman Kledang, Ipoh, Perak.
Lew, a mother of five, said Winnie was diagnosed with the cancer in June, after complaining of pain in her leg.
When an injection and medication administered at a health clinic did not stop the pain, a specialist discovered the tumour through an X-ray.
Lew said subsequently, they asked for advice at a private hospital in Selangor where it was suggested that a section of the bone be removed and replaced with a metal device.
“We felt it would be troublesome when she grows up as the device would have to be changed.
“So we sought a second opinion at another private hospital.
“We were then told that the tumour could be extracted without having to remove part of the bone,” she said, adding that Winnie was then referred to UMSC for the surgery.
Lew said Winnie had stopped schooling and is unable to walk now as her leg cannot be straightened.
“We carry her if she needs to go anywhere.
“We hope to get the funds as soon as possible so she can be treated immediately and recover faster,” she added.
Chaw said he would assist the family to raise the funds needed and manage it.
“When the target is reached, the fundraising will be stopped,” he said, adding that extra funds received would be donated to others in need.
“Those who wish to help Winnie can contact my service centre at 05-281 0608,” said Chaw.
