DECEMBER 11 — When my late mother was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer three months ago, it took all of my family members by surprise. 

Soon thereafter, we were all trying our level best to get her the best treatment possible. However, despite being aware that there is no cure for cancer, we were somehow hoping for some treatment that could make that cancer go away. 

We then began to realise and accept the fact that the only thing we could possibly do was to make my mother feel as comfortable as possible with the least amount of pain that comes with cancer.

It was at that time when my family members were referred to Hospis Malaysia. I had heard of Hospis Malaysia before but it was in passing at most.

Hospis Malaysia is a charitable organisation that offers professional palliative care to patients who are suffering from life-limiting illness, and who live within the Klang Valley. Care extended by Hospis Malaysia transcends age, gender, culture, religion and social standing and is offered free-of-charge.

From the time when my mother was discharged from Pusat Perubatan Universiti Malaya and taken home,  till the time she took her last breath in front of me, Hospis Malaysia was like godsent. 

Even before my mother reached home from the Pusat Perubatan Universiti Malaya, Hospis Malaysia had set up the bed, ripple mattress, oxygen tank and the medicine for pain. They were simply amazing. 

Never have I seen such a dedicated and professional team who would go to great lengths to make sure a person is not in pain and as comfortable as possible. And all this for free. 

And every couple of days, a professional nurse would come to the house to ensure all medicines are administered accordingly. My family members and I had the privilege  to be in the company of Nurse Pam Ho in that time of need. 

Needless to say my mom would have been extremely grateful.

In this instance, I am making a plea to Malaysians to  donate to this wonderful charitable organisation  to ensure that they are able to fund their acts of kindness in the future. 

It is my humble opinion that Hospis Malaysia should be given more coverage and publicity and funding and assistance. 

Kindly visit their website at https://www.hospismalaysia.org/about/about-us and download the donation forms.

Malaysians can also donate to HOSPIS MALAYSIA (Maybank A/C No : 5141 3212 1211).

On behalf of my family members and myself, I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the dedicated doctors and staff of Pusat Perubatan Universiti Malaysia who had taken care of my mother.

* In loving memory of Mom, Baby a/p Manikam, 04.01.1949 — 23.11.2015

* This is the personal opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of Malay Mail Online.