In an attempt to brighten the life of 20 children with congenital heart defects and in conjunction with World Heart Day, Gleneagles Hospital Kuala Lumpur treated these children and their family members for a movie date at AEON Mall AU2 Setiawangsa.
The event started off with welcome message by Medical Director of Gleneagles Hospital Kuala Lumpur, Dr S Sundar Raj followed by cake cutting, clown performance and movie date. Gleneagles Hospital Kuala Lumpur’s A-Heart for A-Heart Corporate Programme has benefited more than 1489 children with congenital heart defects from 1996 till 2021.
“Congenital heart defects have a devastating effect on both child and parents, especially those from disadvantaged households. As a hospital, we have a commitment to making a difference in the communities around us. Despite the many restrictions we endured over the past two years due to COVID-19, we are proud to say that our A-Heart for A-Heart programme continued in its efforts by providing financial aid to families whose children required medical intervention and urgent medical treatment for congenital heart disease”, said Dr Sundar.
He added, the increasing number of cases has been a great challenge for the hospital, but the team which was led by Consultant Paediatrician, Dr. Lim Miin Kang and Dr. Chan Tee Ling as well as Consultant Cardiothoracic Surgeon, Dr. Lee Weng Seng strived continuously to give hope to these children as more children born with congenital heart defects able to lead a healthy lifestyle.
Congenital Heart Diseases are a leading cause of birth defect-associated infant illness and death. It is one of the most common birth defects, relating to the structure of the heart and requires corrective surgery if lives were to be enhanced or saved. A-Heart for A-Heart is aimed at providing free paediatric cardiac care to underprivileged families who could otherwise not afford the corrective procedures needed.
According to the Ministry of Health, about one in every 100 newborn babies suffer from congenital heart defects. This means that about 5,000 babies are born with this condition, based on the 500,000 births every year.
The condition falls in one of three main categories—septal (hole in the heart), obstructive (partial or total blockage of blood flow), and cyanotic (lack of oxygen in blood). While some cases can be resolved on their own, many require intensive intervention in the form of surgery or transcatheter therapy.
The beneficiaries of A-Heart for A-Heart have limited financial means for obtaining such medical attention. Upon referral to Gleneagles Hospital Kuala Lumpur, patients undergo specialist evaluation and prescription. They are also assessed against a stringent eligibility criterion to ensure the funds go to the truly deserving.
The children were taken to Hall 5, TGV to watch “Super Pets”, followed by lunch in the mall.
