BY: Rosli Mansor Ahmad Razali
IPOH: A one-year and two-month-old baby, Firas Affan Mohd Fauzi, is undergoing intensive treatment after being diagnosed with cancerous tumour, specifically an extragonadal germ cell tumour (EGCT), on the right side of his face.
The condition was first noticed when Firas Affan experienced pain in his nose, followed by swelling near his right eye. His father, Mohd Fauzi Saad, 43, said the changes became apparent when his right eye began to protrude, and the right side of his face appeared pulled.
“At first, we thought the lump was ordinary, so we took him to a private clinic before he was referred to Hospital Raja Permaisuri Bainun (HRPB) for further treatment,” he said.
The youngest of five siblings is now receiving six cycles of chemotherapy, having completed two. The third cycle is scheduled for December 29.
“He is improving and no longer cries daily. However, doctors have informed us that a tumour remains in his nasal cavity, and further surgery may be needed after all six chemotherapy cycles,” Mohd Fauzi added.
Firas Affan’s mother, Anis Azwani Azmi, 29, said her son sometimes experiences lethargy and mild fever, but remains mostly active and playful.
“Treatment costs are estimated at RM1,000 per month, including initial surgery and MRI scans. He now only drinks boxed milk, refusing powdered milk,” she said.
Mohd Fauzi works as a lorry driver, earning around RM2,000 a month. The couple have five children, three of whom are already attending school.
“So far, we have not received any financial aid and are appealing for help to cover medical expenses. Firas Affan needs follow-up treatment three times a week at HRPB, which could include additional costs if further surgery is required,” he said.
Members of the public who wish to contribute can do so by depositing into Maybank account 158172934125 (Mohd Fauzi Saad), contacting 011-11983431, or visiting their home at No. 62, Pesiaran 10, Bandar Baru Lahat, Perak.
