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Eight-year-old Vimalaashravanee has been diagnosed with Williams Syndrome since birth, a condition that has caused narrowing in her heart’s main valve. Her condition is critical and cannot be delayed, as she urgently requires heart surgery. Currently, RM55,000 is needed to cover her medical expenses.

Her mother, Shaliny, shared that Vimalaashravanee has never been able to live like other children. In both her daily life and learning, she requires constant care and supervision from her family.

She explained that her daughter is still unable to take care of herself. Basic activities such as going to the toilet, eating, and even simple movements all require assistance. The family has been caring for her like a newborn, handling each day with great caution, hoping she can grow up safely.

Shaliny said that they had previously brought Vimalaashravanee to the National Heart Institute (IJN) for examinations and treatment, and have been traveling back and forth between Hospital Ipoh and IJN for follow-ups. According to the doctor’s arrangement, Vimalaashravanee is expected to undergo heart surgery in May or June 2026.

She added that due to her condition, Vimalaashravanee frequently experiences shortness of breath and breathing difficulties. She needs support when walking and requires extra care when going out.

“She walks very slowly and gets tired easily. Sometimes even breathing becomes very difficult for her.”

“In terms of growth and development, Vimalaashravanee is significantly behind children her age. She does not speak fluently, responds slowly to external stimuli, and is easily frightened. Sometimes when she hears car or motorcycle horns, she becomes very anxious and can only cover her ears, not knowing how to react.”

Shaliny further shared that her daughter had attended kindergarten before. Fortunately, there were no incidents, and the teachers were very caring and supportive. However, due to her health condition, her learning progress has been slow.

“The teachers took very good care of her, and we are truly grateful. But her learning ability is indeed weaker.”

As the second child in the family, Vimalaashravanee’s condition brings great concern and heartache to her loved ones. As a mother, Shaliny endures immense emotional stress every day but remains committed to accompanying her child through every challenge.

“It is very painful for us to see her like this, and we feel helpless. The only thing we can do is pray for divine and medical help, hoping she will have a chance to recover and live a normal life.”

“We sincerely hope that the public can give her a chance to receive treatment, so she may one day live and learn like other children.”

Yee Poo Yoon ，CCEP Chief Executive Officer, explained that Williams Syndrome (WS) is a rare genetic disorder that affects multiple systems in the body, particularly neurodevelopment.

“This condition is widely recognized due to its distinctive facial features, developmental delays, and various associated medical complications.”

“In terms of development, patients with WS often exhibit mild intellectual disabilities or cognitive impairments. The most common heart condition is supravalvular aortic stenosis, which is the narrowing of the blood vessel above the aortic valve. Patients may also develop pulmonary artery stenosis and hypertension.”

She pointed out that Vimalaashravanee’s heart has to work harder than normal to function. As she grows older, her condition has not improved but has gradually worsened, leading to symptoms such as shortness of breath, low stamina, developmental delays, and limited speech ability.

“Currently, she is unable to independently carry out basic daily activities such as using the toilet or bathing, and relies entirely on her family for care.”

She emphasized that, based on medical evaluation, Vimalaashravanee must undergo heart surgery as soon as possible to prevent further deterioration of her condition.