Malaysian toddler relies on oxygen machine due to multiple chronic illnesses
Translated from Malay, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- A 13-month-old boy in Besut, Terengganu, Malaysia, relies entirely on an oxygen machine to breathe due to multiple chronic illnesses.
- Nik Mohammad Nasrulhaq Nik Mohd. Zakwan was born prematurely and suffers from Down syndrome, chronic lung disease, laryngeal issues, a hole in his heart, and hearing loss in his right ear.
- His mother, Suhana Rajab, is caring for him alongside his seven siblings.
In Kampung Gong Lilit, Besut, Terengganu, a 13-month-old boy named Nik Mohammad Nasrulhaq Nik Mohd. Zakwan depends entirely on an oxygen machine for survival. Diagnosed with five chronic illnesses since birth, his condition requires constant respiratory support.
Nasrulhaq faces a complex set of health challenges. He has Down syndrome, chronic lung disease, problems with his larynx, a congenital heart defect causing a hole in his heart, and suffers from hearing loss in his right ear. Born prematurely at 37 weeks, he experienced complications shortly after birth that led to his current critical state.
His mother, Suhana Rajab, 41, is the primary caregiver for Nasrulhaq, who is the youngest of her eight children. She manages his extensive medical needs while caring for the rest of her family. The family's situation highlights the significant challenges faced by parents of children with multiple, severe chronic conditions.
The article notes the family's struggle, with Nasrulhaq's reliance on the oxygen machine being a central point of concern. Further details about the family's circumstances and the specific medical interventions required are expected.
Originally published by Utusan Malaysia in Malay. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.