A charity run has raised RM415,000 to support the services and outreach efforts of a palliative care non-governmental organisation in Penang.
The 5km run in Bayan Lepas, dubbed “Happy Feet: Striding for Palliative Care 3.0”, attracted more than 1,000 participants.
Penang youth, sports and health committee chairman Daniel Gooi, who joined the event, commended Charis Hospice Penang for complementing the public healthcare system with hospice care.
“Despite not having inpatient services, the society remains dedicated, with its doctors and nurses reaching out to patients.
Gooi said the hospice society’s services helped to preserve patients’ dignity while keeping them comfortable, often towards the end of their lives.
The charity run, in its third year, not only promoted a healthy lifestyle but also raised public awareness of palliative care in the country, he said.
Charis Hospice Penang provides free home‑based care for patients with life‑limiting illnesses.
With about one volunteer supporting up to 10 patients, resources are stretched as the society works to sustain quality care.
Its founder and medical director Dr Oo Loo Chan said many people associated palliative care with imminent death – a perception that needed to change.
“People think that when patients receive palliative care, they are going to die, which is not true.
“We provide care to ensure they live well and leave well.”
Dr Oo said the service, which began in 2004, focused on managing patients’ symptoms and guiding them through care decisions, as well as supporting families.
“Symptom management, particularly pain control for cancer patients, is crucial to maintaining quality of life.
“We guide patients in making decisions along the way, especially when their condition worsens,” she said.
“Families are taught to care for loved ones at home, including managing pain, breathlessness and nausea.”
Dr Oo said the society typically managed about 70 to 80 patients at any one time, with over 90% suffering from cancer.
“About 60% to 70% of patients are aged above 70.
“Operating with just three doctors, five nurses and two administrative staff, the team often faces a heavy workload.
“There is also an emotional aspect when patients pass on, but we have to maintain our professional boundaries.”
Dr Oo said rising costs left the society requiring about RM1mil annually to operate, with services delivered through home visits as well as consultations via phone and video calls.
