SUNGAI PETANI: After being diagnosed with lymphoma cancer two years ago, Umi Amira Mohd Dahalan, 24, is worried that the disease will continue to spread due to the limited effectiveness of the previous chemotherapy.
Consequently, doctors recommended a switch to a new chemotherapy drug that is more suitable for her.
"I was diagnosed with lymphoma cancer after the appearance of glands in the middle of my chest and left neck in 2021. I received treatment at Sultanah Bahiyah Hospital (HSB) in Alor Setar, where a sample was taken before confirming it as cancer.
"I underwent 10 rounds of chemotherapy at HSB and underwent tests to collect stem cell samples from my body and siblings, but their stem cells were not suitable for me," she said, during an interview at her home in Taman Universiti Jaya.
"The second sample was taken earlier this year at the same hospital to ensure the cancer cells did not spread and to detect any other potential cancer, but the situation remains the same.
"Now, I only take chemotherapy medication at home, and the doctor suggests that I purchase injectable medications costing RM84,000 for 16 injections," she added.
She mentioned that the cost per bottle is RM17,000, and she needs to obtain it from a private hospital. Umi Amira explained that the previous chemotherapy did not help much, and even taking medication had a similar effect.
"The doctor recommended this treatment despite its high cost. I could continue the previous chemotherapy, but it didn't contribute significantly, and I hope to explore alternative options to reduce this cancer," she said.
Umi Amira, who is currently unemployed, expressed concern about her deteriorating health condition. Her husband, Mohd Najmi Rosli, 28, earns around RM1,500 per month as a factory worker.
She said the financial burden, especially if she needs hospitalisation or attends doctor appointments, affects her husband's income.
"We have a five-year-old daughter, Saidatul Nafisah Mohd Najmi, attending Pasti, and I'm worried about my declining health. I also need to travel back and forth to HSB for blood tests, and the glands on the left side of my neck are swelling," she said.
Umi Amira stated that if she can gather the necessary funds, she will seek treatment for the injections at the mentioned private hospital. She has savings of RM16,000 from the State Zakat Board (LZNK), the Department of Social Welfare (JKM), and contributions from friends and family.
However, this amount is insufficient, and she still requires more funds to afford the injections.
"I don't want to end up like my late mother, who delayed treatment for her breast cancer and passed away last year. I'm at a loss for finding funds because I need an additional RM68,000. I've shared my story on Facebook, but unfortunately, it received criticism from the public," she added.
Meanwhile, Zuraini Kamal, Chairman of Cancer Survivors Malaysia (CSM), emphasised the importance of the injections for lymphoma cancer patients like Umi Amira. CSM paid her a visit and provided cash contributions and healthcare kits, while offering support for her ongoing fight against the disease.
