Charlene is an 11-month-old baby girl from Haiti. She lives with her parents, grandparents, and several other relatives in a small village near the capital. Charlene’s parents are both market vendors.
Charlene has a heart condition called ventricular septal defect where a hole exists between the two lower chambers of her heart. Blood leaks through this hole, leaving her weak and short of breath.
Charlene will fly to the Dominican Republic to receive treatment. On May 3rd, she will undergo cardiac surgery, during which surgeons will close the hole so that blood can no longer leak through it. Another organization, Gift of Life International, is contributing $5000.00 to pay for the surgery.
Charlene’s family also needs help to fund the costs of surgery preparations. Our medical partner, International Cardiac Alliance, requests $1,500 to cover labs, medicines, and check-up and follow-up appointments. It also supports securing passports for the social workers who will accompany Charlene’s family overseas.
Charlene’s mother shared, “Our family is hopeful that after this surgery our daughter will have more energy and will be healthier.”