The teenager’s father seeks public donations for her spinal surgery scheduled at Raja Permaisuri Bainun Hospital on Sept 8.
IPOH: A 13-year-old girl is seeking public assistance to raise RM10,000 for scoliosis surgery scheduled at Raja Permaisuri Bainun Hospital (HRPB) on Sept 8.
Her father, Reduam Saad, 41 said he first noticed signs of the condition when Arissa El Zahra Reduan was 10 years old after observing uneven shoulders and a gradual curvature of her spine.
“At first, I noticed she was slightly hunched, but over time her spine began leaning to one side and her shoulders became uneven.
“My wife and I took her to see an orthopaedic specialist at HRPB on June 5, 2024 and she was diagnosed with scoliosis,” he told reporters at his home in Taman Utama here today.
Reduan said Arissa was initially fitted with a spinal brace to control the curvature of her spine, as doctors advised postponing surgery until she was older and her physical development was more advanced.
“Arissa has been wearing the brace since September last year at a cost of about RM2,500. She wears it almost 24 hours a day, except when bathing, to prevent the curvature from worsening.
“Although uncomfortable, she followed the doctor’s instructions as she understood its importance while waiting for surgery,” he said.
Reduan said follow-up examinations showed the curvature of Arissa’s spine had reached about 70 degrees, prompting doctors to recommend immediate surgery to prevent the condition from worsening and potntially affecting her internal organs.
“She tires easily, her movements are becoming more limited and she can no longer carry out activities as usual. We hope this surgery will help improve her quality of life.” he said.
Reduan who works as a supermarket sales assistant, said his monthly net income of about RM2,100 is insufficient to cover the surgery cost, household expenses and the schooling needs of his two other children.
Members of the public wishing to contribute may do so via Maybank account number 158284021706 under the name Mohd Reduan Saad.
