Abigael Wanyama
Every year, more than 10,000 babies are born with congenital heart diseases, with over 200,000 children under the age of 18 currently suffering from this condition.
The exact cause remains unknown.
Beatrice and Kemnto were fortunate to undergo complimentary heart screenings and surgeries at MPSHA Hospital, which was providing these services free of charge for a limited time.
Amidst the joyous smiles of other mothers, Beatrice Adero was left devastated upon learning that her son’s heart condition could not be treated in Kenya.
During the screening, it was discovered Beatrice Adero’s baby had a complex congenital heart defect that required immediate surgery. Beatrice was devastated to learn that her son’s condition could not be treated in Kenya, as the necessary expertise and resources were not available locally.
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Dr. Salim Jivanji emphasizes the importance of early detection, suggesting that identifying these conditions during pregnancy would be beneficial.
He explains that early detection allows for proper planning and preparation for the child’s treatment, increasing the chances of a successful outcome. However, in many cases, these conditions go undetected until the child is older, leading to more complex and risky surgeries.
Fortunately, MPSHA Hospital recognized the urgent need for heart screenings and surgeries for children in Kenya. They partnered with international organizations and sponsors to provide these services free of charge for a limited time. This initiative aimed to give hope to families like Beatrice’s, who otherwise would not have been able to afford the necessary medical interventions.
The joyous smiles of other mothers in the hospital waiting room served as a reminder of the impact this initiative was having on the lives of countless families. The free heart screenings and surgeries were not only saving lives but also giving hope to parents who had previously felt helpless.
Dr. Salim Jivanji continued to advocate for early detection and treatment of congenital heart diseases. He believed that with increased awareness and access to affordable healthcare, more children could be diagnosed and treated at an early stage, improving their chances of leading healthy lives.
MPSHA Hospital’s initiative to provide complimentary heart screenings and surgeries was a testament to their commitment to the well-being of the community. They hoped that their efforts would inspire other healthcare providers and organizations to prioritize the needs of children with congenital heart diseases, ensuring that no child would be left untreated due to financial constraints.