A Run For Life

by Paik Hwa

Aren’t we glad? The General Election 2013 had not taken over that fine day, 27th of April where we had determined to “Run for Life” and raise awareness about Lysosomal Storage Diseases (LSD) instead. 

Students started trickling in at Bell’s Court to register themselves at the event as early as 7am. There were well over 100 participants who came, most donning the event’s official t-shirts given out some days prior. Besides the NUMedians as the majority of the participants, invitations were extended to Southampton University’s students as well. A Golden Retriever and a Dachshund joined the run too.

The run which was scheduled to start at 8am had to be delayed as the traffic police were missing in action. But of course, this typical phenomenon hardly affects Malaysians anymore (unless you are an international student and is still in culture shock), it did not dampen anyone’s spirit. However, the key people to ensure our safety while runners are on the road were finally ready. With the President of the Student Council leading them in a series of loud cheer, the even more energised runners were set to go as the honk blazed! All these were clearly audible from the ISV. If it did not wake you up and excite you, we empathise that you may have had a long day at the hospital the day before ... (poor medical students...) 

Now that the runners have dashed out of the starting line, they cannot wait to finish the 6km route. It was estimated to take under half an hour for the competitive runners to complete the route, or under an hour for various reasons, though still achieving the day’s objective. 

Proceeds from the NUMed Run for Life were donated to the Malaysia Lysosomal Disease Association (MLDA), a non-profit organization that advocates for patients’ right and to educate people about the various life threatening LSD. MLDA was formed in April 2011 where 8 LSD families decided that there should be increased awareness of the issue where LSD patients have difficulty accessing medical care from multiple disciplines, thereby compromising their quality of life. There is no cure for the rare inherited disorders, however, bone marrow transplantation and enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) have been tried with some success in some cases.

At the end of the day, MLDA received RM1228.90 in total from the event. The amount will be used to purchase a colour laser printer (to be named NUMed), an important asset to help the association print out colourful stories about LSD patients to all that are involved in the budget approval for ERT funding.

The event ended before noon with the prize giving ceremony. Dr. Dominic Johnson, the Dean of Clinical Affairs, won first place for the male category, beating all other younger participants (time for reflection!). The winner of the female category was Aisyah Abdul Rahman, a Stage 3 student while Professor Bradley was the fastest over 60 runner of the day. Congratulations to all winners and cheers to MLDA who has benefitted from this event. NUMedians sincerely hoped to have assist in making a change in LSD patients’ life. 

To support the MLDA in their cause, like their Facebook page (search “Malaysia Lysosomal Diseases Association) or visit www.mymlda.com for more information.

Posted in: 2013,May,News