Despite battling growth hormone deficiency (GHD) and a pituitary microadenoma, 18-year-old Jaden Lim is determined to conquer Mount Kinabalu from February 7-8, embarking on this physically demanding journey for a cause close to his heart.

Jaden, from Petaling Jaya, Selangor, is undertaking this challenge to raise awareness and funds for his younger brother, Branden Lim, 14, who lives with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a genetic disease that weakens muscles over time. His mission is to support Branden's caregiver expenses, which range from RM2,500 to RM3,000 monthly, and to provide him with art supplies, as Branden finds solace and self-expression through his artwork.

"This isn't just about climbing a mountain its about showing Branden that he isn't fighting alone," Jaden shared in a recent email interview. "In a way, it mirrors his own battle. SMA has been part of his life since birth, but he has never let it define him."

For Jaden, the climb symbolizes resilience and determination. "Every day, he overcomes obstacles most people cant even imagine. Climbing Mount Kinabalu is my way of saying, 'We are in this together, and you are not alone.' If he can face his mountains, I can climb this one for him."

Jaden is calling on the public to support his journey by sponsoring a kilometre of his climb for just RM10. The trek to Low's Peak spans 8.5km, and each sponsorship brings him closer to his fundraising goal. "Each sponsorship helps me get closer to the top and to a cause that means so much to me and my family. Together, we can make every kilometre count."

The climb is organized by Jaden's school in Shah Alam, with seven students and four teachers joining the expedition.

Jaden admits to experiencing a mix of emotions ahead of the climb. "I am nervous and excited at the same time. Summiting Mount Kinabalu is no small task, and with that comes some nervousness. But my determination and excitement far outweigh any doubts."

"Every time I think about standing at the summit, I picture Branden's smile and the pride he will feel knowing we did it together. That's what keeps me going. I am determined to reach the top no matter what it takes." To prepare, Jaden has been engaging in strength training, stair climbing, and exercise bike sessions to build his endurance.

Jaden's father, Edmund Lim, 51, describes his sons decision to take on this challenge as a testament to his resilience and deep love for Branden. "Climbing Mount Kinabalu is a serious physical and mental challenge, and the fact that hes doing it for Branden says so much about their bond."

Edmund shares that Jaden has faced his own set of health struggles. "Diagnosed with GHD and later a pituitary microadenoma, it has been a long period of uncertainty and hope. Once treatment could start safely, it meant years of daily injections which he managed on his own as a child. He never complained, but just kept going."

Although his tumour remains non-critical for now, Jaden continues to live with the risks associated with it. "So, seeing him take on this climb, knowing everything he's been through, makes it even more meaningful," Edmund added.

Beyond the climb, Edmund believes Jaden's mission sheds light on the struggles faced by families dealing with SMA, GHD, and pituitary tumours. "Too many people don't understand the immense challenges families like ours face medical, emotional, and financial. It is overwhelming. But awareness alone isn't enough. We need real change government commitment and action to provide kids like Branden, and even adults with SMA, access to life-saving treatments. No family should have to fight an uphill battle just to give their child a chance at life."

Due to caregiving responsibilities, Edmund and his wife, Yap Sook Yee, 50, will not be joining the climb, but they stand firmly behind Jaden's efforts.

For Edmund, Jaden and Branden's relationship is the embodiment of true brotherhood. "Their relationship is what every parent hopes for. Jaden and Branden support each other in a way that goes beyond words."

He added, "Jaden understands struggle. He knows what it means to push through challenges, and now he's putting that same determination into this climb. Branden, for his part, is working hard to be independent, using his creativity and art to earn his own income. He's only 14."

As Jaden prepares to take on Mount Kinabalu, his climb stands as a testament to perseverance, brotherly love, and the power of resilience. More than reaching the summit, his journey is a declaration that no battle is fought alone and that every step forward is one step closer to making a difference.

Source: TheStar