Every year, an estimated 15 million babies are born premature. In fact, it's one of the leading pregnancy complications and it is often difficult to care for a premature baby. But as parents, we would do anything to help our preemies grow up healthy and happy.
A Malaysian couple working in Singapore is doing the same too. They are working tirelessly to ensure the safety and health of their premature baby, Jero. But since their son is placed in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), the couple is seeking help to cover for the hefty medical fees.
Emergency C-section Was Needed To Save Both Mother And Child
While the couple had planned his birth in Malaysia, baby Jero was born on 9 April, three months prior to his estimated due date of 9 July.
It was an unexpected turn of events for the couple when the mum suddenly felt shooting pains and had to be rushed to KK Women's and Children's Hospital. There, the couple learnt that her amniotic sac burst and their baby's heart was unstable.
She then had to undergo an emergency cesarean section to save both – mother and son.
Nursing Care For Premature Baby Born At 27 Weeks
Jero was brought into the world at 27 weeks and only weighed 1kg. His organs are yet to fully develop and is required to stay in NICU and under observation for 100 days. He also needs an oxygen tank at all times.
According to Shin Min Daily News, the Jero even has a hole in his heart and requires constant medical attention. All of this has placed mounting financial pressures on the couple.
Couple Seeks Help To Cope With Medical Fees
They not only have to cater to the cost of the NICU facility, but also need to pay additional bills for Jero's sustenance. Naturally, this is taking a toll on their finances, especially since they have already exhausted their savings.
Plus, they've also been informed that their son may have to be kept under observation for at least two more months. The estimated cost to have their baby stay in the hospital can reach between $230,000 and $280,000.
In order to keep their baby boy healthy, the couple has started a fundraiser to appeal to the public for help. "Please help us, give hopes and future to our son and let us get through this difficult situation," the father wrote in his appeal.
If you are willing to help baby Jero, you can do so by donating to their Give.Asia fundraiser. All the funds they raise are managed by GiveAsia Kindness and will go directly to their son's medical bills.
Note: At the time of writing, the couple has already raised about $278,928 of their $280,000 goal.
Lead image source from Give.Asia website and Facebook / Shin Min Daily News.
ALSO READ:
Premature Birth May Be Reduced By Treating Foetus As Patient: Study
Parents Of Extremely Premature Babies Face An Impossible Choice