Ulu Baram woman seeks financial help to get kidney transplant in KL after 14-year wait

MIRI (Oct 30): Chronic kidney failure patient Christina Asong Ajang from Ulu Baram, who has been awaiting a transplant for 14 years, is appealing for financial help to undergo the procedure at Hospital Kuala Lumpur (HKL).

The 43-year-old has been getting dialysis three times a week at the Malaysian Red Crescent (MRC) dialysis centre here since 2010.

“After numerous tests, the doctors have finally certified that I am fit for the pre-transplant workup scheduled on Nov 21,” she told The Borneo Post today.

Christina explained that she does not have a fixed income due to her poor health.

“I make and sell bead crafts at home, earning between RM300 and RM600 depending on orders,” she said, adding she also receives RM200 in monthly assistance from the Welfare Department.

“I do not know how long I will be in KL or if I will need to return to Miri after the pre-transplant workup, which is why I am concerned about the cost of flights as well.”

The pre-transplant workup will see Christina undergo multiple tests and procedures to determine if a suitable kidney match is available.

Following the transplant, she will also need to stay in Kuala Lumpur for post-procedure recovery.

“Once I am cleared and healthy, only then will I be allowed to return to Miri,” she explained.

For accommodation, Christina said she has reached out to non-governmental organisation (NGO) Pertubuhan Amal Uncle Kentang Malaysia.

“I have contacted Uncle Kentang, but they could not guarantee a place for me yet. I am still hopeful though that a unit will be available for me while I wait for the transplant,” she said.

According to activist Dennis Along, many from the Orang Ulu community have been diagnosed with kidney failure.

“Christina is fortunate to be the first to be selected for a transplant. We hope the public can help her,” he said.

Dennis, who is also a chronic kidney failure patient himself, has been waiting over 20 years for a transplant.

For those wishing to assist, contact Christina on 011-25019763.