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KUCHING, July 13: Sarawak’s childhood cancer patients receiving treatment at the Paediatric Oncology and Haematology Ward 2A of the Sarawak General Hospital (SGH) now have access to improved care with the donation of new essential medical equipment sponsored by the Malaysian Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
A ceremony was held this morning at the ward for the official handover of 13 units of medical equipment valued at RM115,167.55 from the Church to SGH and Sarawak Children’s Cancer Society (SCCS).
The equipment, consisting of an airvo set and its accessories, a Bi-level ventilator, infusion pumps and syringe pumps, was handed over to Paediatric Oncologist of Ward 2A head Dr Betty Ho and SCCS executive director Jodie Sim by representatives from the Church, Elder Sandy Hall and Sister Ardella Hall.
SCCS president Rodney Wong applauded the Church’s contributions to improving the overall quality of care provided to children fighting cancer in Sarawak through the range of medical equipment donated to meet the unique needs of childhood cancer patients.
“The ward is the main treatment centre for children diagnosed with cancer under the age of 18 from all across Sarawak. On average at any one time, the ward accommodates about 15 to 20 patients who are under active treatment, with a maximum of 28 patients at peak.
“There are limited units of equipment such as the infusion and syringe pumps available at the ward. This significant top-up will help ensure all children have access to the best available equipment for the safe and accurate administration of chemotherapy medications,” he said in a media release.
This year, SCCS has allocated a total of RM655,000 from its annual expenses of about RM2 million to provide medical aid to help more than 150 children on their cancer-fighting journey.
The medical aid includes sponsoring lab tests, transplant procedures and medications, funding upgrading works for ward facilities and donating medical equipment not available in government hospitals. SCCS works closely with the medical team to identify these critical needs and supports financially where necessary.
The support and services provided by SCCS, a non-profit organisation (NGO), are primarily funded through public donations and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) projects carried out by businesses and corporations.
Wong emphasised that support from like-minded organisations is vital in providing NGO like SCCS with additional financial resources to allow it to expand its services and initiatives in enhancing care for young cancer patients.
Dr Ho also thanked the Church for their donations to help improve patient care by ensuring children have timely access to the treatment and support care equipment.
“With the addition of new equipment such as the Bi-level ventilator, we will be able to better cater to the needs of patients and help improve treatment outcomes. The ventilator will provide non-invasive respiratory support while improving oxygenation for patients with chronic respiratory conditions. This portable device also allows patients to receive treatment at home, rather than having to stay in the ward,” she said.
Preliminary upgrading plans are also underway for SCCS to enhance the flooring for oncology rooms at Sibu Hospital and to improve the Paediatric Ward Daycare at Bintulu Hospital, with a total estimation of about RM100,000.
Members of the public and corporations who are interested in engaging in CSR projects or signing up for SCCS’s Monthly Donation Programme can contact SCCS at 011 3927 6553 or via email at em1@sccs.org.my. — DayakDaily
