Watching a loved one battle a lifelong disease can be a difficult experience for someone. Yet, it is nothing that love and devotion cannot overcome as proven by a pair of siblings.
M’sian siblings devoted to caring for bedridden mother
Living with rheumatoid arthritis is a struggle for 47-year-old Akhilah Ahmad. According to Kosmo!, she and her family live in Kampung Batu 8 in Jeniang, Malaysia. Since her diagnosis, she has been bedridden for over eight years, unable to move and with her hands and feet gradually becoming deformed.
The excruciating pain and inflammation in her joints make even the simplest tasks impossible. So, she relies on the constant care and attention of her children. Especially when her husband, Mohamad Zaidi Mohd Desa, is away working as a restaurant assistant.
Caring for her for over 8 years
Nor Adira, the 20-year-old daughter of Akhilah, took on the role of caregiver after completing her SPM examinations two years ago.“When I was in boarding school in Bedong, Merbok, my 15-year-old brother, Muhammad Haikal, would take care of her,” she said. The pair established a routine where Nor Adira would care for their mother during the day, while her brother took over during the night.
While it can be emotionally challenging, a financial burden weighs on the family as well. Akhilah receives a contribution from the Department of Social Welfare for Persons with Disabilities (OKU) amounting to RM300. Besides, a monthly zakat contribution of RM400 is allocated to the family.
However, more than half of the money goes into buying disposable diapers. Although the siblings have to put their education on hold, they remain committed to tending to their mother. “I don’t mind spending long hours taking care of my mum and not being able to pursue my higher education,” Nor Adira said. “For me, our mother’s sacrifice cannot be compared as she gave birth to us and raised us.”
Their commitment to their mother’s wellbeing is truly remarkable, considering the sacrifices they have made. Let’s do our part to aid them as a community. Members of the public wishing to donate can do so through below:
Telephone number: 019-4280443 (Akhilah)
Bank Simpanan Nasional account number: 0212541000027153
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