PUTRAJAYA: Nine-month-old Ainul Mardhiah Ahmad Safiuddin, who is stricken with a rare type of cancer known as Germ Cell Tumour, left on Friday night for London, the United Kingdom, where she will receive treatment.
The infant, accompanied by parents Ahmad Safiuddin Ahmad Razak, 24 and Nurul Erwani Zaidi, 24, left on Malaysia Airlines (MAS) flight MH002 at 11.30pm from the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) here.
Up to 50 members of Ainul's family and friends were present at KLIA’s departure hall to send her off.
One family member led a prayer for their safe journey, prompting other family members to break down and cry.
Meanwhile, Ainul, whose mouth is engorged with the bright red tumour, was calm as she lay in a maroon baby stroller pushed by her father.
Ahmad Safiuddin said he thanked all Malaysians who have extended financial help and emotional support to them during this difficult time.
"I thank all Malaysians and I hope they will continue to pray for Ainul to recover and be normal like other babies.
"It is also my hope that everyone will pray for Ainul to return to Malaysia in a healthy and normal condition," he said when approached by reporters.
It was reported that two experts in anaesthetic management from a local private hospital are accompanying the family during the trip, at their own expense.
United Kingdom-trained surgeon Dr Nur Amalina Che Bakri added that another doctor will be waiting for them at Heathrow Airport upon their arrival.