If you’re currently in a relationship or have been one before, you’d find it hard to be away from the person you love and plan to spend the rest of your life with.
Unfortunately for this couple, they were forced to make the heartbreaking decision to go their separate ways after discovering that they both had thalassemia.
What is thalassemia?
Thalassemia is an inherited blood disorder that occurs when the body does not make enough haemoglobin.
Haemoglobin primarily functions as an enabler for red blood cells to transport oxygen. However with thalassemia, there will be a decrease in the production of healthy red blood cells.
This condition can be passed down from parents to their children through defective genes.
Thalassemia may also cause anemia, a condition which leaves the individual feeling fatigued. In severe cases, thalassemia has the potential to bring about an early death, particularly among those aged between 20 to 30 years old.
“We are both carriers”
In a TikTok video, @szasaccount recounted how she and boyfriend ultimately came to the difficult decision to break up.
“I knew that I was a carrier, but was unsure of my boyfriend’s condition. At the advice of my father, we both decided to go for a blood test as we didn’t want to put our future children at risk for thalassemia.
As we waited for the results, we prayed fervently that we both would not share the same condition. Unfortunately, our worst fears soon became a reality.”
She also admitted that it wasn’t easy for them and spent many days crying.
“After much discussion, we both agreed to break things off and remain as good friends,” she said, adding that their last day as a couple was during her boyfriend’s brother’s wedding.
@szasaccount please spread awareness about thalasemia ##thalasemia ##thalasemiaindonesia ##breakup ##fyp
♬ Pesan Terakhir – Lyodra
The video has since garnered 3.3 million views and a comment section full of praise for the young woman’s bravery and selflessness.
We sincerely wish @szasaccount all the best and we also hope that her story will serve as a reminder to always be aware of whatever genetic disorders you may have.
It’s unrelated to the article but here’s our brand-new podcast – Talk Je Lah!
Cover Images via TikTok/@szasaccount
Author: Grace Choong
Proofreader: Sarah Yeoh
