“If we delay any longer, the curvature will continue to worsen, and it will eventually affect her breathing, development, and daily movement. Ever since my husband passed away from cancer, we’ve been struggling to survive. I really hope the public can help with my daughter’s corrective surgery.”

Twelve-year-old Irene Teoh Ke Xin from Balik Pulau, Penang was found to have an abnormal spine during a school health screening earlier this year. Further X-ray examination confirmed that she has C-shaped scoliosis, with a curvature of 41° at the time.

【Rapid Deterioration in Just Months • Curvature Now Pressing on Lungs and Affecting Growth】

Irene was referred to the orthopaedic department for follow-up. The latest X-ray showed that her spinal curvature increased to 44° within just a few months—a clear sign of rapid deterioration.

Doctors warned that the increasing curvature will not only affect her posture, shoulder alignment, and waist symmetry, but also put pressure on her lungs, potentially causing breathing difficulties and long-term impact on her growth and development.

She urgently needs corrective spinal surgery. However, the specialised implants and instrumentation required for the procedure come with a high cost—far beyond what this single-parent family can afford.

【Father Lost to Cancer • Mother Carrying the Family Alone. Mother: “I don’t ask for a better life, I just want my children to grow up safely.”】

In 2022, Irene’s family suffered a heartbreaking loss when her father passed away from lung cancer, leaving Irene and her older brother in their mother’s care.

Their mother, Saw Boon Peng, 49, works as a part-time helper at a fruit stall, earning only RM1,000 per month. Father’s passing left the family relying solely on a widow’s pension (Pencen Penakat) to get by.

This modest income barely covers the basic living expenses of the three-member household. She sends both children to school every day, works in between, and tries her best to keep their education on track.

Watching Irene’s spine curve more each day and her discomfort grow, she feels completely helpless.

“Irene is only 12. I just want her to grow up healthy and normal. I really cannot afford this cost… but I don’t want to give up on her.”

After conducting a home visit and assessment, One Hope Charity has decided to assist Irene Teoh Ke Xin by launching a fundraising campaign to raise the amount needed.

For any enquiries, please contact our hotline 04-539 9212, 016-419 2192, 019-232 2192, 018-911 4192.