Celebrating extraordinary journeys: Tender Touch gala honors 22 families facing rare diseases

October 13, 2025 
Healthcaretoday, Tender Touch Pediatric Rehab, Celebrating abilities, Rare disease, Pediatric Rehab, Rare disease awareness, Community support, Lotuss Malaysia, Kimrya International, Childrens Health, Disability inclusion, Special needs parenting,
A powerful runway walk in sports wear celebrating families and the partnership between Tender Touch and Kimrya International.
Healthcaretoday, Tender Touch Pediatric Rehab, Celebrating abilities, Inclusive events, Pediatric Rehab, Rare disease awareness, Community support, Lotuss Malaysia, Kimrya International, Childrens Health, Disability inclusion, Special needs parenting, Rare disease community, Hanim Hamdan of Lotuss Stores presents a RM55,920 cheque to Sharfiza Abdul Aziz, funding three months of therapy for nine underprivileged children.
The ballroom sparkled with joy as 22 families, all raising children with rare diseases representing 13 different diagnoses, gathered for Tender Touch Pediatric Rehab's annual fundraising gala dinner. Dressed in beautiful traditional attires, these families were treated to an enchanting performance by Nurul Ainin Hanafi, Finalist of Bintang Etnik Malaysia 2025. The evening reached a particularly heartwarming moment when four mothers proudly walked the runway with their special needs children, showcasing Kimyra International's sports wear and celebrating the meaningful collaboration between the rehabilitation center and the clothing company. Throughout the event, parents openly shared their experiences, creating an atmosphere of understanding and community that filled the room with positive energy.

Beyond the dinner plate
Sharfiza Abdul Aziz, Founder of Tender Touch Pediatric Rehab, beamed with pride as she explained the deeper purpose of the gala. "When I first started, people always questioned why I was hosting a dinner instead of just asking for therapy funds directly," she shared with a warm smile. "But this isn't merely a dinner—it's a night of celebration for these parents. Many of these parents don't get opportunities to attend social events since they've had to leave their jobs to care for their children full-time. This gala provides them with a rare chance to dress up, connect with others who understand their journey, and feel celebrated rather than isolated."

Corporate partnerships that transform lives
The evening's success was highlighted by Lotuss Malaysia's generous contribution of RM55,920, which will provide three months of professional therapy for nine underprivileged children. "It might sound small because it's only nine children, but the effect on their lives is tremendous," Sharfiza explained. She emphasized the importance of corporate sponsors in providing access to professional medical therapy that must be customized for each child's unique needs. "Corporate involvement opens people's eyes to the potential of these physically affected children. They need to be seen, to understand that they too have a future and can thrive like any other children—with the right support."

Hanim Hamdan, Lotuss Stores Head of Communications, Sustainability and Corporate Services, proudly explained how the RM55,920 donation was raised through customer-driven initiatives during their anniversary celebration. "We wanted to be as transparent as possible, which is why we publicly announce the funds we raise and contribute," she said. "Yes, it's an odd number, but we're giving exactly everything we promised." This marks the third year Lotus Malaysia has supported Tender Touch Pediatric Rehab, beginning with a fundraiser during their anniversary where they sold discount booklets created with brand partners. The relationship has grown to include participation in Lotuss Malaysia's "Kitakan Jiran" program, a CSR initiative focusing on community support for vulnerable groups.

Hanim's commitment to this cause runs deep, inspired by personal experience. "My cousin had a daughter with cerebral palsy (CP) in the 90s when there wasn't much help available," she shared. "She remained pretty much immobilized and passed away a few years ago. It was heartbreaking." This personal connection drives her passion for supporting Tender Touch Pediatric Rehab's work. The impact became even more real when a colleague with a child facing challenges reached out after Lotuss Malaysia began working with the center. "It's good that parents have a place to go where they don't feel abandoned," Hanim noted, highlighting the importance of community support for families navigating similar journeys.

Celebrating small victories, creating big impacts
The most inspiring part of the evening came when Hanim shared the remarkable progress she's witnessed in the children attending Tender Touch Pediatric Rehab. "From the first time we met them to now, I can see they're more alert. Some can even raise their heads and interact, showing emotions—that's a huge difference!" she exclaimed with genuine excitement. "We're not asking for these children to run, walk, or learn like everyone else. The fact that they can show some reaction is a win. Even standing is a win!" These small victories represent tremendous progress and bring immense joy to the children, their families, and supporters who understand the significance of each milestone.

A bright future built on community support
As the evening drew to a close, both Sharfiza and Hanim expressed their hopes for continued support from corporations and individuals. "We will do our best to continue supporting initiatives that provide children with the help they need," Hanim affirmed, noting how this aligns perfectly with Lotuss Malaysia's focus on health and social impact. The gala dinner not only raised essential funds but also awareness about the importance of professional therapy and community support for children with rare diseases. 

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