SUNGAI BULOH, Sept 5 (Bernama) -- "One will never know until one walks in his shoes," this proverb describes the situation of Ridzuan Mat Moor, 46, who has been battling Multiple System Atrophy (MSA), a neurodegenerative disorder, since 2019.
The former staff member of the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) said the condition has caused him permanent disability and he is unable to care for himself without the help of family members.
“The symptoms began in 2017. There is no cure for this disease (but) I’m getting physiotherapy and occupational therapy at a private health centre,” said the former assistant manager of the Bernama portal, who worked at the news agency from 2000 to 2020.
As if things weren’t difficult enough, the father of three is still grieving the loss of his beloved wife, Azlin Sarip who passed away from a heart attack three months ago.
“It’s heartbreaking to the point where it’s hard to control myself. Thankfully, I have moral support from friends, former colleagues, family, and neighbours helping me cope with this,” he said during an interview at his home today.
Bernama chief executive officer, Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin and editor-in-chief, Arul Rajoo Durar Raj, visited Ridzuan today and presented him with a contribution from the Tabung Kasih@HAWANA fund.
Ridzuan said he was initially surprised by the visit but was deeply touched that he was still remembered by his former colleagues.
Meanwhile, Nur-ul Afida expressed hope that the contribution provided to Ridzuan would help ease his burden.
“We may not be able to offer much, but through the Tabung Kasih@HAWANA fund, we hope to ease some of his difficulties, particularly with medical expenses and other related costs.”
“Should he require additional assistance, we will make every effort to provide it,” she said.
Ridzuan is among the 145 media personnel who have benefited from the Tabung Kasih@HAWANA fund since its introduction in April last year. In addition to the cash donation, he received items from Syarikat Pakaian Hari-Hari and Aeon Big.
The Tabung Kasih@HAWANA fund was established in conjunction with National Journalists' Day (HAWANA) 2023 to support journalists and media personnel, both active and retired, who are unwell or in need of assistance.
This initiative is part of the Communications Ministry's efforts, implemented by Bernama.
-- BERNAMA
