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By Mihar Dias March 2025
Allow me to share a heartbreaking story that serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of placing trust in unprofessional or unproven treatments for serious illnesses.
This is the story of Che Intan Md Zain, a 62-year-old woman battling brain cancer, whose decision to seek help from a bomoh—a traditional healer—led to devastating consequences. https://newswav.com/A2503_TXQSSF?s=A_tsS5jLF&language=en
Che Intan’s fear of medical procedures drove her to abandon hospital treatment in favour of unconventional rituals prescribed by the bomoh. https://newswav.com/A2503_TXQSSF?s=A_tsS5jLF&language=en
These rituals included bathing with seven kinds of flowers for seven days, finding the hearts of dead lovebirds, and obtaining cloth from someone who had died on a Tuesday. https://newswav.com/A2503_TXQSSF?s=A_tsS5jLF&language=en
These bizarre and impossible demands left her desperate and vulnerable. When she couldn’t fulfill them, she resorted to selling everything she owned, including her home, handing over RM60,000 to the bomoh in the hope of a cure. https://newswav.com/A2503_TXQSSF?s=A_tsS5jLF&language=en
Tragically, her cancer worsened during this time, and she lost vision in one eye due to the lack of proper medical treatment. Her savings, her home, and her health were all sacrificed in pursuit of a false promise.
Che Intan’s story is a sobering warning to us all. Unprofessional healers often exploit fear and desperation, offering false hope while preying on vulnerability. While traditional practices can provide comfort and cultural significance, they are no substitute for evidence-based medical care.
If you or a loved one is facing a serious illness, here is some crucial advice to consider. First and foremost, trust medical professionals. Doctors, oncologists, and healthcare providers are trained to treat illnesses with proven methods such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery. These treatments are grounded in science and have saved countless lives.
Second, seek affordable care. Many government hospitals offer modern treatments at minimal cost, ensuring that financial constraints do not force patients to turn to unproven alternatives. Don’t let fear of expenses compromise your health.
Third, educate yourself about your condition and the available treatment options. Knowledge is your best defense against misinformation and manipulation. Understanding your illness empowers you to make informed decisions about your care.
Finally, lean on support networks. Organizations like Cancer Survivors Malaysia (CSM) provide valuable resources, guidance, and a sense of community for patients and their families. You are not alone in this journey, and there are people and groups ready to help.
Che Intan’s courage in sharing her story is a call to action for all of us. Let us learn from her experience and prioritise science, reason, and compassion in our healthcare choices. When it comes to your health, trust the professionals—your life may depend on it.
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