Man goes bald to honour grandkid’s memory

KUCHING (March 28): For a healthy individual, a shaved head may only remain bald over several weeks, but for children battling cancer, it carries a deeper meaning.

For 64-year-old Orai Goper, that message is deeply personal – one shaped by love, loss and the memory of his granddaughter, Edeva, who fought bravely against Stage 4 brain cancer.

He was met after the launch of the GoBald 2026 campaign at the Sarawak Children’s Cancer Society (SCCS) Halfway Home here on Friday.

After the young girl was diagnosed with medulloblastoma – a highly malignant, fast-growing tumour originating in the cerebellum – Orai became her full-time caregiver, tending to her daily needs while her mother continued working.

“I took care of my granddaughter full-time at home. When she was admitted to the hospital, her mother took over.

“We took turns, going back and forth to the hospital to send necessities,” he recalled.

“After she was discharged, she stayed at home for a few months.

“However, the illness returned.”

Orai said doctors later confirmed the worst – the cancer had spread, leaving little hope.

“They told us she might not have long. We could only prepare, keep trying, and continue to pray.”

In an effort to comfort Edeva, Orai shaved his own head at home – a small, but heartfelt, gesture to lift the girl’s spirits.

He said despite having undergone two surgeries, her condition worsened.

“She underwent two surgeries, but the doctor could not remove the entire tumour.

“Some of it remained, which caused the cancer to return.

“For the third time, the doctor did not dare to take the risk because the chances were only 50-50.

“Surgery might only prolong her suffering,” he said.

After a long battle, Edeva passed away at home under palliative care last November, surrounded by her family.

The girl was five years old.

Even as her strength faded, the family remained determined to give her moments of joy.

“With the support of SCCS, she was given the chance to experience school, even if only for half a day.

“We also brought her to the beach and out for walks.

“We even took her to see the lights at the Waterfront at night, but at that time, she could only lie in the car and had no strength,” he said.

Among her happiest moments, according to Orai, was witnessing a Christmas tree lighting-up ceremony at a local mall.

“She was very excited seeing the lights,” he said.

Reflecting on the support that the family received, Orai expressed deep gratitude to SCCS for their unwavering assistance.

“They do not see race, background, or religion. Everyone is helped.

“We may not be able to repay them financially, so we give back by joining programmes like GoBald.

“I first joined the campaign back in 2025 when Edeva was still around.

“Should the SCCS invite me again next year, I would definitely come to show my support.”

Now, each time Orai shaves his head, it is no longer just an act of solidarity, but a tribute to his beloved granddaughter.

“Hair cut today will grow back tomorrow, but seeing the suffering of children like this truly touches my heart,” he said.

Orai also urged those dealing with cancer to never hesitate in seeking help.

“If anyone is facing cancer-related issues, do not hesitate to seek help from SCCS.

“They are always ready to help.

“Their staff will do their best to assist in any way they can,” he said.