TANAH MERAH: The love of a wife is evident in her willingness to ride a motorcycle for 50 kilometres, carrying her husband who suffers from skin cancer to the Tanah Merah Hospital at least three times a month for treatment.
Siti Aminah Biru, 38, makes this arduous journey with her husband, Mohd Nazir Che Othman, 48, enduring harsh sunlight and rain, and often with their three-year-old child in tow.
Siti Aminah explained that Mohd Nazir's worsening condition and constant pain prevent him from standing for long periods.
"The journey includes hilly and unpaved roads, sometimes forcing my husband to get off the motorcycle and walk," she said. "I've fallen off the motorcycle several times due to the challenging and slippery roads, especially in the rain."
Mohd Nazir has been battling skin cancer for two years, and his condition has recently worsened, causing near-constant pain as his skin has started to ulcerate.
Thirdforce (Raja Shamri Foundation) representative Tuan Zaimah Raja Omar visited them today at their home in Kampung Batang Bergedik, Gual Ipoh.
The foundation provided financial aid, essential supplies, and medication, and is working to raise additional funds to support the family.
Siti Aminah, who is a mother of three children aged three to eleven, said the family receives RM800 monthly from the Kelantan Islamic and Malay Customs Council (MAIK). However, she noted that this amount is insufficient, particularly since her husband has lost his income.
"Every month, we need RM300 for medications, in addition to what we receive from the government hospital. With our children in school, daily expenses are high," she said.
"Sometimes, I have to ration our food and buy the cheapest fish at the market to ensure we have enough to eat. I also care for my mother, who has mental health issues."
Siti Aminah expressed her resolve to care for her husband despite the challenges, acknowledging his past support for her and their children.
Mohd Nazir, meanwhile, expressed gratitude for his wife's unwavering support and hopes for recovery so he can resume his role as the family's breadwinner.
He admitted feeling self-conscious about his condition, fearing how others might view him due to his sores and ulcers, but said he remains thankful for his wife's continuous care and support.