In a heartbreaking yet selfless act, the family of Darna Tajudin, a 41-year-old mother of five, who tragically passed away after being struck by a pickup truck while jogging on August 10, has agreed to honour her final wish by donating her corneas to help others.
Darna, who had been fighting for her life in the ICU for a week, had always expressed a desire to become an organ donor, and her family has now ensured that wish is fulfilled.
Her younger brother, Sanni Tajudin, shared, “To fulfill her wishes, our family has agreed to allow the hospital to proceed with the cornea donation surgery.”
Although Darna had never officially registered as an organ donor, she had often spoken about her desire to help others, especially after hearing about organ donation campaigns, reported Harian Metro.
“I never imagined that her wish would come true, even though she’s no longer with us,” Sanni added.
Darna was also a regular blood donor, known for her selflessness and willingness to help others. Her family’s decision to donate her corneas has given new hope to those in need of transplants, even amidst their deep sorrow.
The accident that changed everything
The tragic incident that ultimately led to Darna’s passing occurred around 7.55pm on August 10.
On that fateful evening, Darna was out jogging with several friends along Batu 9, Jalan Apas, when disaster struck.
A Toyota Hilux pickup truck, driven by a 57-year-old man suspected of being intoxicated, collided with the rear of a Perodua Alza.
The collision caused the Hilux driver to lose control, veering off the road and crashing into Darna and her friends. While the others managed to escape with minor injuries, Darna was struck and sustained critical injuries.
Immediately rushed to Tawau Hospital, Darna’s condition remained critical for the following week. Despite doctors’ best efforts, she was declared braindead, leaving her family in deep grief.
Yusmi Tajudin, Darna’s younger brother, shared the painful reality of the family’s loss, revealing that Darna leaves behind five children, aged 9 to 18.
“We are still waiting for the next procedures before we can arrange her funeral, as the case is still under police investigation,” he said.
In the aftermath of the accident, the investigation into the circumstances surrounding Darna’s death continues.
The driver of the Toyota Hilux, a 57-year-old man, is currently being investigated under Section 44(1)(b) of the Road Transport Act (APJ) 1987 for dangerous driving.
Tawau District Police Chief, Assistant Commissioner Jasmin Hussin, confirmed that the investigation is ongoing as authorities work to determine the full extent of the incident.
Tawau Hospital staff pay tribute to Darna
As part of honoring Darna’s final wish, Tawau Hospital staff paid their respects to the deceased before the cornea donation procedure was carried out.
In a moving tribute, hospital personnel gathered to offer their condolences and show gratitude for Darna’s selflessness in choosing to donate her organs.
This act of kindness from both Darna and her family has touched many hearts, bringing hope to those in need of a cornea transplant.
‘If I die, will people come to visit?’
Before her tragic death, Darna was known for more than just her role as a mother; she was an active member of her community, particularly within the running circle.
Her close friend, Suarni Sudirman, 36, shared that they had planned a jogging activity with other friends just two weeks before the accident.
Suarni recalled a conversation they had that now feels eerily prophetic, where Darna, reflecting on life’s unpredictability, asked, “If I die, will people come to visit?”
When Suarni tried to reassure her not to speak such words, Darna responded, “Maybe I’ll go while running because it’s my passion.”
In hindsight, Suarni admitted, “She also said, ‘Of course, I’ll be the one to go first.’ I never thought those words would become a reality.”
Darna’s foresight and love for running were central to her identity. Just before the incident, Darna had even requested that her friends wear white shirts during their jog and take plenty of photos and videos as keepsakes.
Little did they know how meaningful those photos would become.
Remembering Darna
The impact of Darna’s passing is being felt deeply across the Tawau community.
Known for her energetic and positive spirit, Darna was an active member of the Tawau Runners Club. Sudirman Nanang, Deputy President of the club, described her as someone who always supported and participated in local running events.
“Just yesterday, we held a charity sale and raised RM9,335 to help ease the burden on her family. But we never expected to receive the news that she had passed away,” he said.
