KUALA LUMPUR – Kenneth Low, once a shining star of Malaysian squash in the mid-90s, now faces a heartbreaking struggle with basic daily tasks, rendering him unable to earn a living.
This former national champion’s life has been dramatically altered by a rare and incurable disorder.
Speaking to Scoop, National Athletes’ Welfare Foundation (Yakeb) chairman Datuk Noorul Ariffin Abdul Majeed revealed that Kenneth has been diagnosed with Cadasil, a devastating condition that has no cure.
Cadasil is a hereditary disorder that affects small blood vessels in the brain and is caused by mutations in the Notch3 gene.
Noorul said the 48-year-old former athlete received this diagnosis from Kuala Lumpur General Hospital in May, following a thorough medical investigation that included blood tests sent to a research centre in South Korea last year.
Previously, Scoop reported that Kenneth had been suffering from a chronic central nervous system disorder for about two years.
“Kuala Lumpur General Hospital is doing its best to help Kenneth manage the disease, with treatment plans and neurology appointments set up,” said Noorul when contacted.
“His rehabilitation is taking place at Cheras Rehabilitation Hospital, and he will also need periodic psychiatric treatments to maintain mental strength.”
This leads to the thickening of blood vessel walls, impairing blood flow and causing damage to the brain’s white matter.
Symptoms typically begin in mid-adulthood and include migraines with aura, strokes or transient ischemic attacks, memory and cognitive decline, mood disturbances, and movement and sensation issues.
Noorul emphasised that while the disease is incurable, treatment focuses on managing symptoms and reducing the risk of stroke and other complications through lifestyle modifications and medications such as antiplatelet agents.
Regular monitoring by healthcare professionals is essential for managing the progression of the disease.
“Kenneth is improving with daily rehab activities and workouts. He can walk without support but needs assistance during workouts and hospital appointments.
“He requires motivation, support from family and friends, regular social interaction, and adherence to his medication regimen,” Noorul added.
To ensure Kenneth receives the necessary support, Noorul stressed the importance of continuous fund collections, aided by Yakeb, the media, and public support.
“Every month, he needs RM5,000 for home care, some pocket money, and medication if it needs to be bought from a pharmacy.”
Currently, Kenneth is in a care home in Cheras and receives periodic psychiatric treatment and physiotherapy.
Before his condition worsened, he worked in various coaching roles across many states and took up jobs as a cleaner at restaurants and apartments.
He was also employed at a clinic in Petaling Jaya in September last year and worked as a cleaner at an archery centre in Damansara. – June 10, 2024