SHAH ALAM – Raising children with disabilities demands exceptional strength, and two couples candidly share their extraordinary journey of nurturing their children with Down Syndrome and cerebral palsy, each requiring specialised care.
During a Ramadan Campaign at Karangkraf Complex, a special talk focused on the challenges and triumphs of raising children with disabilities.
Popular singer-songwriter Faizal Tahir and BIKEISABLE Club President Wira Sudepja Rawi shared the stage with Faizul Shafiee as moderator.
The event, sponsored by Zakat Collection Centre, MAIWP-PPZ, brought together parents with disabled children for an insightful discussion.
Two couples were invited to share their experiences.
Muhammad Khir Johari Ibrahim Kamal, 53, and Karimah Noh, 48, spoke about their daughter diagnosed with cerebral palsy while still in the womb.
"At a five-month scan, the doctor noticed the baby couldn't turn fully.
"That's when we learned about her condition," Karimah said.
Their daughter faced communication and understanding difficulties, requiring constant support.
"She's bedridden, so we need a special vehicle to take her places.
"Therapy has been crucial since she was two weeks old," Karimah added.
Their daily efforts focus on understanding their daughter's needs and ensuring she receives the best possible support.
Another couple, Muhammad Azizul Kamaruddin, 53 and Nur Azlina Ramli 44, have a son with Down syndrome.
"He's a bit behind in both physical and intellectual development.
"His special needs include specific food requirements and feeding methods," Azizul said.
Diagnosed at birth, their son's condition wasn't detectable beforehand.
Balancing love for all their children is a priority.
"There haven't been complaints from our other kids about feeling neglected," Azizul assured.
He stressed the importance of support groups like BIKEISABLE, advocating for the rights of disabled children.
"We don't care about others' opinions, as long as our children behave well," Azizul said firmly, addressing societal acceptance.
The event served as a platform for parents with disabled children to connect and share their experiences.
The discussion also highlighted the extraordinary strength and love required to raise children with special needs.