She is not afraid of undergoing surgery. What she fears most is watching her condition worsen day by day her spine becoming more curved, the pain growing more intense, and even simple daily movements gradually becoming difficult.

Lee Kah Tian, 22, from Bukit Mertajam, Penang, has lived with a mild brittle bone condition since childhood. She was diagnosed with fragile bones at just five months old and spent much of her early years in hospitals and rehabilitation centres, growing up smaller than her peers.

Kah Tian is currently a working student, as she firmly believes that only through completing her education can she truly become independent and change her destiny. Despite suffering from long-term back pain caused by scoliosis, she continues to persevere in both work and studies, hoping to improve her life through her own efforts.

【She strives to live and pursue her dreams, yet cannot escape her worsening spinal condition】

At the age of 12, Kah Tian noticed that one side of her waist sank inward while the other protruded. After medical examinations, she was diagnosed with scoliosis. In the early stages, the curvature was mild, and doctors only advised regular monitoring and stretching exercises. However, as she grew older, her condition continued to deteriorate. Recent medical assessments show that her spine has now curved to 50 degrees (C-shaped). Doctors have warned that without prompt corrective surgery, the curvature will continue to worsen, causing more severe pain and significantly reducing her quality of life. If she misses this critical treatment window, even standing, sitting, and working normally may become a lifelong struggle.

Kah Tian is currently working part-time as an accounting clerk at a bookkeeping firm, earning about RM1,900 per month, while pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Strategic Management through online distance learning with the support of financial aid.

Her 62-year-old father, Lee Chew King, earns about RM400 a month by transporting students after retirement, while her 52-year-old mother, Au Yong Lean Leen, sells fried noodles and earns about RM2,000 monthly. Her brother and sister are also working, but their modest incomes are barely sufficient to cover daily expenses, leaving the family struggling to make ends meet.

Kah Tian hopes that this surgery will help improve her physical condition, relieve her long-term back pain, prevent further deterioration, and allow her to complete her studies, become independent, and pursue her dreams for the future.

After a home visit and assessment, One Hope Charity has approved the launch of this fundraising campaign. The family has entrusted One Hope Charity with full responsibility for managing and collecting donations. For enquiries, please contact 04-539 9212, 016-419 2192, 019-232 2192, 018-911 4192.