PENANG, Tues: Two-year-old Lok Chian Tong, who suffers from a Hole –in-the-heart, is to undergo surgery today but his parents cannot afford to pay for it.

Doctors told the parents who are from Alor Star, that the toddler needs immediately surgery.

The Rotary Club of Penang and the Penang Adventist Hospital have come forward to help meet part of the RM17,000 surgery cost.

The boy’s father, Ban Seng, earns only about RM1,000 a month as a part time welder.

The mother, Lai Poo Mee, said Chian Tong was diagnosed with the heart problem when he was taken to the clinic a month after his birth.

Since then, we tried to look for financial help as we won’t be able to afford the surgery.

"I’m grateful that the hospital is willing to help us raise funds for my son’s operation. However, we still needs donations and I hope there are people willing to help us."

Penang Rotary Club president Michael C.H. Chen said the money will be given to the hospital together with a donation from Rotary International under its Gift of Life programme.

"The programme is to help children from countries in the region and so far 46 Cambodians, 18 Malaysians, six Indonesians and a Filipino have gained a new lease of life."

Those wishing to help can send their contributions to the Rotary Club of Penang Gift of Life Account 2 at 7, Jalan Kelawei, 10250, Penang, or to the Heart Patients Fund, Penang Adventist Hospital, 10350, Penang or call 04-2261133 ext 1259/1265.

Contributors should write "Gift of Life" on the back of the cheques.