Yaashika lives with Townes-Brocks syndrome, Goldenhar syndrome, and Pierre Robin sequence, which affect her ability to breathe, eat, and develop normally. The oral and maxillofacial clinic at UMMC has agreed to perform a surgery that could restore her breathing through the nose.
PETALING JAYA: While most children her age are busy with school and play, nine-year-old Yaashika Steven Dass has spent much of her young life fighting simply to breathe.
Born with Townes-Brocks syndrome, Goldenhar syndrome and Pierre Robin sequence, Yaashika has faced a lifetime of complex medical challenges since birth. As a result, Yaashika breathes through a tracheostomy tube and depends on a feeding tube for daily nourishment. She also requires the use of a hearing aid. Now, her mother S Kogila Vani is appealing to Malaysians for help to fund a crucial surgery that could finally allow her daughter to breathe normally through her nose.
Kogila, who has raised Yaashika alone since her husband left after their daughter was born, said the oral and maxillofacial clinic at Universiti Malaya Medical Centre has agreed to carry out the surgery for free. However, the distractor and matrix maxillofacial plating needed for the procedure must be specially imported from Switzerland at a cost of RM78,000.
“I only earn enough working from home to support my daughter’s daily needs, medication and treatment. I also receive some welfare aid to help cover expenses including rent,” she told FMT.
“I would be deeply grateful if Malaysians could help my daughter. I am appealing to the public to help us through this difficult time. ” Kogila said time is of the essence as the surgery has been scheduled for July 8. According to medical suppliers, the implant will take about six weeks to arrive from Switzerland once full payment has been made.
Townes-Brocks syndrome, Goldenhar syndrome and Pierre Robin sequence are all rare congenital conditions that affect facial development, hearing, breathing and feeding. UMMC oral and maxillofacial clinic head Dr Zainal Ariff Abdul Rahman explained that Yaashika’s condition involves multiple craniofacial abnormalities that severely affect her ability to breathe and eat normally.
“The surgery is critical for Yaashika. It will be the first of several procedures aimed at helping her breathe normally through her nose while also improving her overall wellbeing,” he told FMT.
“Without it, her health and development could be severely affected. ” The estimated cost is a daunting amount for any family, especially one already carrying the emotional and financial burden of caring for a child with complex medical needs. A spokesperson from UMMC’s welfare desk said the hospital is working closely with Kogila to raise the money, and that it would do its best to assist with any shortfall after the fundraising efforts.
If you are able to help, kindly bank your contribution directly to Kogila Vani Selvadurai, RHB Bank account 1141 0100 222 899.
Complex Medical Challenges Tracheostomy Tube Feeding Tube Rare Congenital Conditions Cardiocutaneous Syndrome Croonian Malformation
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Malaysian chefs eye World Pastry Cup glory after winning silver in AsiaPETALING JAYA, May 16 — After clinching a silver medal at the prestigious Asian Pastry Cup last month, Malaysian chefs Foo Yi Qing, 28, and Mun Pui Teng, 31, have earned a...
Read more »
Malaysian Government Commits to Elevating Teaching Profession on Teachers DayDatuk Seri Fadillah Yusof highlights the evolving role of teachers beyond classroom education and emphasizes the importance of nurturing future leaders with strong character. The 2026 Teachers Day celebration, themed 'Guru Bitara, Nadi Negara', highlights the significance of teachers in shaping the nation and driving progress.
Read more »
Prominent Malaysian Politician's Reflection on the Crucial Role of Teachers in a Complex WorldPrime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim shares his thoughts on the increasingly vital role of teachers in shaping a generation with strong moral character and inner strength during his Facebook post on Teachers' Day. He also reflects on his founding of Yayasan Anda Akademik, a scholarship program for low-income students.
Read more »
Inside ‘Fleak’: The ambitious international animation with Malaysian roots and a surprisingly emotional core (VIDEO)KUALA LUMPUR, May 16 — Animated features continue to captivate audiences worldwide with increasingly sophisticated storytelling and visual ambition.New animated film Fleak,...
Read more »