M'sians Raise RM170,000 To Help National Squash Hero Kenneth Low Battle Against MS
The former six-time national squash champion has been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS), a potentially disabling disease of the brain and central nervous system.
Malaysians have raised about RM170,000 for former national squash champion Kenneth Low Ewe Loong after news of him working as a cleaner to make ends meet caught public attention in late July
Low was a former six-time number one squash player in the country between the 1980s and 1990s. At his peak, he was the number four player in Asia, and number 38 player in the world, reported FMT.
When FMT broke the news on 30 July that Low had resorted to working as a cleaner at an archery centre with a monthly salary of RM1,500, support poured in to help him overcome his struggles.
It was reported that Low did not have money to undergo various tests to determine the severity of his health condition. He was said to have been suffering from stroke-induced impairment, reduced coordination and motor skills, cognitive disability, and short-term memory dysfunction.
After receiving financial assistance from the public, he has since undergone a series of medical examinations and has been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS), a disabling neurological disease and autoimmune disorder that affects the central nervous system, reported FMT.
"The road ahead will be hard, demanding, painful, and ever-changing, but I will fight it with the spirit of a sportsman," said the 47-year-old former squash hero
He said he is content with his condition being made public as it shines a light on MS.
MS is a chronic, potentially disabling disease that can affect the brain and spinal cord, causing a wide range of potential symptoms, including problems with vision, sensation, balance, and limb movement, according to UK's National Health Service.
Low suffered a stroke about two years ago. He has been struggling with various movement and cognitive difficulties for several years now.
As he is unable to do so on his own, Low has requested the assistance of four individuals to manage the funds the public raised for his welfare
The four individuals are National Athletes Welfare Foundation chairman Noorul Ariffin, squash legend S Maniam, Best Archery Centre owner Jeffrey Kok (Low's current employer), and Frankie D'Cruz, the FMT journalist who highlighted Low's situation.
"Special thanks to FMT, Yakeb, Jeffrey, and Maniam for coming to my aid," said Low.
Noorul said that he would expedite appointments for Low at government hospitals, and his foundation will cover the expenses for prescribed medications that need to be purchased from a private pharmacy.
From left to right: Kenneth Low, Noorul Ariffin, and Jeffrey Kok at a discussion on 31 August.
Image via FMT
Low's life took a downturn after he suffered a stroke about two years ago, leaving him without support from family or friends:
Here are stories of other former national athletes who have struggled to make ends meet after retirement:
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