KUCHING
13 JULY 2023
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 Paediatric Ward 2A 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 Head Paediatric Oncologist of Ward 2A Dr Betty Ho and Executive Director of SCCS Jodie Sim (沈善丽) by representatives from the Church, Elder Sandy Hall and Sister Ardella Hall.
SCCS President Rodney Wong (黄启庆) 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 Paediatric Ward 2A at the Sarawak General Hospital 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,” he said.
“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,” Wong elaborated.
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 added when commenting on the donation, “Support from like-minded organisations such as the Malaysian Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is vital in providing NGO like us with additional financial resources to allow us to expand our services and initiatives in enhancing care for our young cancer patients. Collaborations with companies and corporations can open doors to potential donors, supporters and strategic partners, leading to further partnerships and long-term sustainability.”
Dr Betty 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 General 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.
