Simple things many take for granted – walking, eating, even breathing comfortably – can leave her tired and struggling. Yet those closest to her say she remains a gentle, sweet child who dreams of going to school, playing with friends, and growing up like anyone else.
Vimala was born with Williams Syndrome, a rare genetic condition that affects multiple systems in the body. In her case, it has led to a serious heart defect known as supravalvular aortic stenosis – a narrowing of the main blood vessel that forces her heart to work harder than normal.
Doctors stress that she needs surgery as soon as possible. The procedure, expected to take place at the National Heart Institute (IJN) next month or in June, could significantly improve her condition.
But there is one major hurdle: the RM55,000 needed to make it happen.
For her family in Sungai Siput, Perak, that amount is far out of reach. Her father works as a tyre technician earning about RM2,000 a month, while her mother, Shaliny, stays home to care for her full-time.
The demands of Vimala’s condition mean she cannot be left unattended. “She is still unable to take care of herself. Basic things like going to the toilet, eating, even simple movements – she needs help with everything,” Shaliny explained.
Indeed, her condition affects how she experiences the world. “She walks very slowly and gets tired easily. Sometimes even breathing becomes very difficult for her,” Shaliny added.
Loud sounds can overwhelm her, and she often struggles to respond to what is happening around her. “Vimala becomes very anxious when she hears car or motorcycle horns. She can only cover her ears, not knowing how to react,” her mother said.
Speech, too, does not come easily as her development has been slower than that of other children her age. Shaliny shared that Vimala once attended kindergarten, where her teachers did their best to support her.
“They took very good care of her, for which we are truly grateful.”
‘Heartbreaking, helpless’
To raise the funds required, Vimala’s parents have the help of CCEP Foundation, an NGO that helps the poor, needy, deprived and underprivileged.
“It is heartbreaking to see such a young life held back by circumstances beyond her control,” said its CEO, Yvonne Lee, who explained that the surgery cannot be scheduled until the money is raised.
She added that all funds will be paid directly to IJN for full transparency and accountability.
For now, Vimala remains at home, waiting – which makes Shaliny and her husband feel “helpless”.
“It is very painful for us to see her like this,” she said. “The only thing we can do is pray for help, hoping she will have a chance to recover and live a normal life.”
If you wish to contribute, donations can be made directly to CCEP Foundation, RHB Bank account number 2621 9300 009 342. Please use the reference ‘Vimala’.
To obtain your receipt, kindly send them a WhatsApp message.
Learn more about CCEP Foundation here, or contact 03-7955 9999 / 010-279 8849.