A 19-month-old baby in Malaysia has been diagnosed with ovarian cancer, a disease usually seen in older women.

The baby’s mother, Fallarystia Sintom, noticed in August that something was wrong when her daughter started experiencing constipation and a swollen stomach.

Daneen Auni Riksi, the baby, also became less active and wanted to be held constantly.

"My daughter was uncomfortable, and since she couldn't talk yet, she would just cry when in pain," said Fallarystia, 25, as reported by Malaysian news outlet *Sinar Daily*.

The family, who reside in Sabah, initially sought treatment at a local hospital. However, after a significant drop in her blood count, Daneen was transferred to a specialized women's and children's hospital, where a 13.5cm tumor was discovered. Following surgery on October 2, it was confirmed that Daneen had stage 3 ovarian cancer.

Ovarian cancer is classified into four stages, with stage four being the most severe. Stage 3 indicates that the cancer has spread from the ovaries to areas beyond the pelvis, such as the abdomen, nearby lymph nodes, or the liver’s surface, according to the Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance (Ocra).

"When I found out, it broke my heart because my baby is so young and has already lost her right ovary," Fallarystia said. Daneen's parents also have a four-year-old son with autism, reported *New Straits Times*.

Ocra states that about 90 percent of women diagnosed with ovarian cancer are over 40.

Daneen is expected to begin chemotherapy once she recovers from the surgery.

"As long as treatment is available, there is hope," Fallarystia added.

As the family hopes for Daneen’s recovery, her father, Riksi Tahir, expressed concern about the upcoming medical costs.

"The hospital hasn't given us an estimate yet for the surgery and chemotherapy," said Riksi, a 25-year-old firefighter, according to *Sinar Daily*.

He has issued a public appeal for donations to help ease the financial strain. The Sabah Fire and Rescue Department has also shared his appeal on its Facebook page.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Facebook/Jabatan Bomba Dan Penyelemat Malaysia Negeri Sabah