A mother’s resilient journey in seeking aid for hero son’s rehabilitation

A living embodiment of the adage that a mother’s love transcends boundaries and knows no limits, 56-year-old Julia Jemat epitomises unwavering care for her children, notably for the unsung hero Mohamad Syafiq Ali Hanaffiah, who fell victim to a tragic house fire while bravely attempting to save a child.

In the serene corridors of Stutong Height Apartment Phase 2, Block A, the single mother Julia recounts her time caring for 33-year-old Syafiq and also another 30-year-old son who suffers from seizure, a medical condition where a person experiences sudden, uncontrolled muscle contractions and may lose consciousness.

“The test of endurance, only Allah knows, I have shed too many tears.

“During Syafiq’s coma, three times he was in critical condition, to the point that the doctor advised us to be prepared because anything could happen; his condition at that time was indeed severe,” Julia said somberly to reporters during an exclusive interview on Thursday (Dec 28).

Despite Syafiq’s critical condition, the family faced numerous challenges, including financial burdens and the emotional toll of witnessing their loved one’s suffering.

Julia had to juggle responsibilities between caring for Syafiq, his youngest son and attending to her 6-year-old granddaughter, the daughter of Syafiq’s sister, Nor.

Mohamad Syafiq’s mother Julia Jemat speaking to New Sarawak Tribune and Suara Sarawak reporters.

The financial strain escalated as Syafiq required extensive medical attention, involving 10 surgeries within the first month of his admission to the Sarawak General Hospital (SGH). His injuries, both external and internal, demanded immediate and continuous care.

Julia at that point found herself contemplating the need to leave her job and focus on Syafiq’s recovery.

“I contemplated quitting my job to care for Syafiq. I’ve been a government servant for more than 20 years, and I am now four years into retirement. But I am worried about the financial strain, especially considering my own impending spinal surgery,” she said.

The family faced challenges not only in covering medical expenses but also in managing daily living costs. Syafiq’s nutritional needs, specialised skin care, and the ongoing expenses for a 30-year-old with a six-year-old child demanded substantial financial resources.

When asked about sources of support, “The assistance from the Malaysian Civil Defence Force (APM), who provided financial aid during Syafiq’s hospitalisation.

“Additionally, Member of Parliament Lo Khere Chiang offered assistance and arranged for wound care specialist Dr Sim Chap Hoong at Teddy Medical Bau to provide free medical treatment to 10 patients, including Syafiq.

“When Dr Sim offered his assistance, it has lightened our burden, making the situation a bit easier. Now, Dr Sim’s nurses occasionally come to help with the treatment.”

Previously, she added, they had to send Syafiq to the hospital once every two days to change his dressing but now it is much easier, as it is difficult to carry him to the wheelchair and bringing him down the stairs, this will lead to more bleeding.

Julia expressed her gratitude for the support received but emphasised the ongoing need for assistance.

Mohamad Syafiq’s mother Julia Jemat showing Syafiq’s shrunk palm caused by the fire.

“We are grateful for the aid we have received, but it is not enough to sustain us in the long run. We need continuous monthly support to cover Syafiq’s medical and daily living expenses,” she stated.

She explained that the type of food needs to be carefully chosen such as soft type rice as Syafiq can’t chew for too long due to stiffen muscle caused by the burns around the face area.

Furthermore, she stated that excluding assistance from other sources, it would cost her roughly around RM2,000 to RM3,000 for food, drinks, medication, vitamins and fruit for her son’s health.

“The other day, I was surprised because the milk ran out, so Nur tried asking at the pharmacy, and they told her it’s RM102 for a pack, and he has to drink it four times a day.

“We’re lucky that Hope Place provides us with the milk every three months, but it’s hard to say how long this supply lasts as we have only received it recently.

“Only the diapers run out quickly; we’ve already bought them several times which cost us roughly around RM17 to RM19 depending on which shop we go to,” she explains her situation.

Despite the challenges, Julia maintains her faith and resilience. She believes in the power of prayer and encourages others to extend support in whatever form they can. Julia’s hope is that the community will come together to provide the much-needed financial assistance for Syafiq’s recovery.

To extend support or enquire about Syafiq’s condition, Julia can be contacted at 017-8112326. Contributions and assistance from the community can make a significant impact on Syafiq’s journey toward healing.