Sunshine Hour: Outing to Lost World of Tambun - February 2025

The monthly Sunshine Hour Program is a cherished initiative organized by PPCS to provide patients with opportunities for recreation and socialization outside the confines of their homes. This month, they embarked on a special outing to the Lost World of Tambun (LWOT), a renowned theme park in Ipoh, offering a blend of nature, adventure, and relaxation. The excursion which took place on 19th February presented our patients with a memorable and enriching experience.



The day began with a short briefing at PPCS, where the Medical Director addressed the group. He ensured that all patients were medically fit for the trip and emphasized the importance of safety throughout the outing. This precautionary measure set the tone for a smooth and incident-free day. The group departed PPCS at 10:30 AM and arrived at LWOT by 11:00 AM. Upon arrival, the LWOT staff gave them a warm welcome and assisted with the ticketing process, ensuring a hassle-free entry. Their hospitality and support were greatly appreciated.

After entering the venue, the group explored the water theme park, marvelling at its lush landscapes and serene ambiance. The patients enjoyed the tranquil environment, which provided a refreshing escape from their daily routines. Many photos were taken for keepsakes. A delicious lunch was generously sponsored by LWOT management and served by the poolside. The meal was not only satisfying but also provided an opportunity for the group to relax and bond in a picturesque setting.

Post-lunch, the group embarked on a tram ride that took them around the park. The ride resembled a safari, with wild animals such as tigers, deer, and exotic birds visible on both sides of the route. This unique experience brought excitement and wonder to the patients. The tram stopped at the petting zoo, which turned out to be the highlight of the day for many patients. There were opportunities for hands-on interactions with tame animals and birds, including capybaras, goats, and parrots. This activity provided therapeutic benefits, fostering joy and emotional connection.

By 3:00 PM, the group concluded the outing and returned to PPCS without any unforeseen incidents. The day was marked by laughter, camaraderie, and a sense of enjoyment.



Acknowledgments:

PPCS would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the management of the Lost World of Tambun for their generous sponsorship of the entrance fees and lunch. Their support played a pivotal role in making this event a success. We also convey our thanks to the volunteers and staff who ensured the safety and well-being of the patients throughout the day.

Reflection:

This outing to LWOT was more than just a recreational activity; it was a therapeutic experience that allowed our patients to connect with nature, engage in meaningful interactions, and create lasting memories. Such initiatives are integral to their holistic well-being, and we look forward to organizing more enriching events in the future.


Write-up contributed by Dato Dr Ziaudin Ahamed, Medical Director of PPCS | Photos by PPCS Admin for Sunshine Hour

“Heartfelt Gratitude for Your Compassionate Care”

Testimonial from a patient’s family

My deepest gratitude for the exceptional care and support provided to my beloved wife, Ong Mee Fong, during her time in palliative care. A special mention and appreciation for Palliative Care Nurse Joanne and Medical Director, Dato Dr Ziaudin Ahamed for making the home visit.

Your team’s unwavering dedication, compassion, and professionalism made an immense difference during a profoundly challenging time for our family. From the moment we entered your care, we were met with kindness and empathy that eased our burdens and provided much-needed comfort.

Your attentive and personalized care ensured that Mee Fong’s final days were filled with dignity and peace. The genuine concern and gentle touch with which you attended to her needs brought solace not only to her but also to our entire family. Your efforts allowed us to focus on spending precious moments together, knowing she was in the best possible hands.

We are eternally grateful for the emotional support, guidance, and compassionate care you extended to us. Your presence brought light to our darkest days, and your dedication to Mee Fong’s well-being will forever be remembered.

Thank you for the extraordinary work you do and for making a lasting impact on our lives.

With heartfelt appreciation,
Sit Wai Yin PJK, Husband of the late Ong Mee Fong

Pengendalian Cabaran Emosi dan Psikologi dalam Penjagaan Paliatif: Menyokong Pesakit, Keluarga dan Diri Kita

Pada 21 Januari 2025, Dr. Jasdeep Singh Gill, Pakar Perunding Psikiatri dengan pengkhususan dalam Psikiatri Usia Tua dari Hospital Fremantle, Perth, Australia Barat, menyampaikan sebuah ceramah di Dewan Serbaguna PPCS. Ceramah ini telah menarik pelbagai peserta termasuk pengamal penjagaan paliatif dari Pertubuhan Rawatan Paliatif Manjung, pengamal perubatan am, doktor PPCS, jururawat, sukarelawan, dan ahli jawatankuasa pertubuhan.
 
Pembentangan Dr. Gill memberi tumpuan kepada cabaran emosi dan psikologi yang dihadapi oleh pesakit, keluarga dan kakitangan perubatan dalam penjagaan paliatif. Berdasarkan kedua-dua penemuan penyelidikan dan pengalaman peribadinya, beliau menekankan kelaziman gangguan mood, seperti keresahan dan kemurungan, dalam kalangan pesakit paliatif. Terutama, hampir satu perempat daripada semua pesakit paliatif dan separuh daripada mereka yang mempunyai penyakit serius mengalami keadaan tersebut.
 
Beliau menekankan bahawa gangguan mood sering nyata sebagai gejala fizikal, termasuk keletihan, insomnia, anoreksia, dan rasa mengantuk, yang boleh menyebabkan kurang diagnosis dan rawatan yang tidak mencukupi. Dr. Gill mengadvokasikan pemeriksaan rutin untuk gangguan mood pada pesakit yang mengalami pelbagai gejala fizikal, sambil menekankan bahawa intervensi awal adalah penting. Gangguan mood yang tidak dirawat boleh menguatkan sensasi badan, menghalang pengurusan gejala yang berkesan, dan berpotensi membawa kepada keadaan psikiatri sekunder, seperti kemurungan major.
 
Dr. Gill juga membincangkan pendekatan berasaskan bukti untuk menguruskan cabaran tersebut. Terapi Tingkah Laku Kognitif (CBT) telah menunjukkan hasil yang berpotensi dalam menangani gangguan mood dalam tetapan penjagaan paliatif. Beliau mengesyorkan gabungan ubat antidepresan, psikoterapi sokongan, dan pendidikan pesakit dan keluarga sebagai sebahagian daripada pelan rawatan yang komprehensif. Selain itu, beliau menekankan potensi manfaat terapi komplementari, seperti urutan aromaterapi, yang didapati berguna di beberapa tempat, walaupun penyelidikan lanjut diperlukan untuk menilai sepenuhnya keberkesanannya.
 
 
Ceramah ini menekankan kepentingan menangani kesejahteraan emosi dan psikologi di samping gejala fizikal dalam penjagaan paliatif. Dengan berbuat demikian, para pekerja kesihatan boleh meningkatkan kualiti hidup pesakit dan keluarga mereka dengan ketara di samping melindungi daya tahan emosi mereka sendiri dalam bidang yang mencabar ini.
 
Pembentangan Dr. Gill merupakan peringatan tentang pendekatan holistik yang diperlukan dalam penjagaan paliatif, menekankan keperluan untuk belas kasihan, intervensi awal, serta kerjasama antara pelbagai disiplin untuk mengemudi landskap emosi dan psikologi yang kompleks dalam penjagaan akhir hayat.
 

Artikel oleh Dr. Ziaudin Ahamed, Pengarah Perubatan PPCS.