Cardinal Sebastian Francis Visit

The Persatuan Kebajikan Haemodialysis St Anne (PKHSA) had the honour of hosting a distinguished guest, Cardinal Sebastian Francis, during his visit on October 20. Welcoming the cardinal were Msgr Henry Rajoo, the spiritual director of PKHSA, along with the committee members, led by chairman Paul Liew and vice chairman Johnny Ng.

Cardinal Sebastian highlighted the role of PKHSA as a Catholicmanaged dialysis centre, exemplifying the spirit of St Anne by actively promoting the social dimension of the Gospel. He stressed that spreading the Gospel entails both charitable acts and the advancement of human life. Msgr Henry also affirmed that PKHSA faithfully heeds the call of Jesus Christ in tending to the ill, providing essential renal care, especially to those less fortunate, regardless of race or religion.

Chairman Paul Liew warmly welcomed Cardinal Sebastian, expressing gratitude for his visit and support. PKHSA has ambitious plans to establish new centres in Alor Setar and Ipoh, thus extending its outreach to a larger number of kidney patients. Currently, the centre is equipped with 18 haemodialysis machines and is staffed by six dedicated nurses and four support personnel, all of whom care for 39 patients.

Established in 2002, the PKHSA operates as a non-profit non-governmental organisation, offering haemodialysis treatment to fully paid renal failure patients. The availability of free or subsidised treatment is made possible through the generosity of benefactors and public donations.

The significance of the PKHSA’s mission is underscored by the fact that Malaysia is facing a growing kidney patient population, with over 40,000 individuals affected and 8,000 new diagnoses annually since 2018, as announced during the World Kidney Day launch in 2022.

Accompanied by the committee members, Cardinal Sebastian personally visited each patient, offering words of encouragement and support. Grateful patients expressed their appreciation for the visit and the PKHSA’s commitment in covering treatment fees and providing exceptional care, enabling them to lead meaningful lives. Cardinal Sebastian concluded the visit by blessing the centre for its continuous growth and its unwavering dedication to preserving the dignity and well-being of renal patients.

By Christopher Kushi