GARUT (February 29, 2024) - Toto (61) expressed his gratitude to the Ministry of Social Affairs for helping his wife, Titik Kartika (51) who has a malignant tumor on the left side of her face. The resident of Sukamulya Village, Dayeuhmangggung Village, Cilawu District, Garut Regency, West Java, received various aids from the Directorate of Social Rehabilitation for the Elderly of the Ministry of Social Affairs.

Eight months ago, Titik Kartika underwent surgery to remove a tumor on her face at Hasan Sadikin Hospital in Bandung, but the tumor grew back on her face, "Currently I can't do anything else because there is no money for treatment," said Toto, the head of the family. He works as a casual daily laborer who doesn't earn much money.

In addition to supporting his wife, Toto also has to pay for the needs of his only child, Zaidan (15).

Facing this case, the Directorate of Social Rehabilitation for the Elderly of the Ministry of Social Affairs coordinated with the Head of the Social Rehabilitation Division of the Garut Regency Social Service to change Titik Kartika's BPJS or health insurance, which was previously BPJS Mandiri, to APBD or BPJS Penerima Bantuan Iuran (PBI) so that her medical expenses could be free.

To facilitate Titik Kartika's flexibility, the Ministry of Social Affairs is also working with the Head of the Health Services Division at the Garut Regency Health Office. The cooperation concerns with the transportation. If Titik Kartika wants to go to Hasan Sadikin Hospital in Bandung, which is located about 75 kilometers from her house, the Garut Regency Social Service will provide a free ambulance.

"The Garut Regency Health Office is willing to help through the Public Safety Center (PSC). Assisted by volunteers, we will help Mrs. Titik when she goes to Bandung for treatment until she returns to Garut without any cost," said Dr. Rita the Head of Health Services Division, Garut District Health Office.

ATENSI assistance was also provided for Titik Kartika and her family in the form of nutrition, clothing, and personal hygiene kits.  To help the family's economy, the Ministry of Social Affairs provides an entrepreneurial package for a grocery store that will be managed by Mr. Totok.

The Ministry of Social Affairs will continue to monitor and assist in handling Titik Kartika's health. In addition, it will also continue to guide and monitor so that Mr. Toto's grocery shop business can run smoothly and can help his family's economy.