JOHOR BARU: Gleneagles Hospital Johor (GHJ) has pledged to match ringgit-for-ringgit funds raised by a student who ran 85 kilometres in aid of cancer patients.
The 16-year-old Marlborough College Malaysia student Zachary William Taylor took 15 hours to complete the run along the Singapore coast last year, to raise funds for cervical and breast cancer patients.
He managed to raise RM5,000 and GHJ will match the amount, which will go towards treatment costs for 25 cancer patients.
GHJ chief executive officer Dr Kamal Amzan, who is also IHH Malaysia regional and southern CEO, said Zachary's feat was remarkable and inspiring.
He said GHJ supported the noble endeavour as Zachary had decided to adopt a healthy lifestyle while achieving his mission to help cancer patients ease their financial burden.
"We are proud to be part of Zachary's journey. His dedication towards helping cancer patients in need aligns with our mission at GHJ.
"We will support any noble endeavours by members of public who want to contribute towards helping those battling cancer," he said, adding that early diagnosis will help patients.
"Early detection leads to less invasive treatments and potentially reduce the necessity for extensive surgeries and additional therapies, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes and quality of life.
"GHJ will match the funds collected and it will be channelled towards the Breast Cancer Support Group (BCSG), Tunku Laksamana Johor Cancer Foundation (TLJCF), and iCare Cancer Support Association Johor (iCare)," he said.
While praising Zachary's efforts, Dr Kamal also welcomed those who wished to play their part in safeguarding public health, especially in aid of cancer patients.
This is in line with GHJ's objective to provide financial assistance to patients diagnosed with breast or cervical cancer.
"Through dedicated individual efforts, patients with financial difficulties can have access to top-notch healthcare in Johor," he said.
He added that GHJ is committed and takes pride in leading Johor's healthcare to higher levels.
Meanwhile, Zachary said he had prepared for the solo run three months ahead of the event.
"Although I was physically and mentally drained, my mission pushed me towards completing my goal," he said when met at GHJ.
The cancer patients chosen to receive the aid also had a chance to meet him and express their gratitude.
Zachary, who started the run at 6am and finished by 10.30pm, said he hoped to rope in his college mates in his future efforts in support of cancer patients.
He added that GHJ's pledge to match the funds raised showed the hospital's dedication to the community and its vision to elevate healthcare standards in Johor.