KUCHING: Cyrus Bong Khai Tze, a six-month-old baby diagnosed with biliary atresia from birth, needs liver transplant as soon as possible to ensure his healthy growth.
As the disease does not meet the requirements for insurance claims, the baby needs RM120,000 for his surgery fees and RM60,000 for preoperative medical expenses at University of Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC).
Community Care Enrichment Programme Foundation (CCEP) chief executive officer (CEO) Yee Poo Yoon said that Bong’s situation was serious and did not rule out the need to be sent overseas for a liver transplant and medical treatment.
“The CCEP Foundation will raise RM60,000 for his preoperative medical expenses, which include the special milk powder, medical supplies, medical expenses and other expenses.
“The doctor has informed that blood washing, kidney dialysis and long-term anti-rejection drugs may be required after the operation, and huge expenses may be required after the transplant.
“We will raise funds separately for the postoperative part after the operation if there is such a need. At present, we hope that everything will go well for the baby,” she said.
She added that the foundation would provide accommodation for Bong’s parents during the treatment period, allowing them to take turns taking care of the baby.
The father, Bong Tong Fook, 33, said that due to liver inflammation, the milk his son consumed could not be absorbed, and he frequently vomited, causing him to be underweight. He needed to gain another two to three kgs before the procedure.
He said that doctors currently estimated the success rate of the operation was 75 per cent, and everything would have to wait for the baby to gain weight before a liver transplant could take place. Otherwise, Bong’s condition would continue to deteriorate.
“Fortunately, we met a good doctor who knew about our situation and introduced us to the CCEP Foundation. After investigating, they decided to assist us in raising funds,” he said.
Those who wish to donate can contribute through the foundation’s bank account at 26219300009342 (RHB Bank).
