Five-year-old Malia lives with her parents and older siblings in Haiti. She is especially attached to her father, who works in construction.
Malia was born with a cardiac condition called atrial septal defect. A hole exists between the two upper chambers of her heart. As a result, blood leaks through this hole without first passing through the lungs to obtain oxygen, leaving her feeling weak. To close the hole in her heart, Malia will need surgery.
First, Malia will undergo a full cardiac assessment on January 18. This assessment will include physical exams, labs, and an overnight stay at the hospital. Our medical partner, Haiti Cardiac Alliance, is requesting $1,500 to fund these procedures. Funding for Malia also covers the cost of medications and social support for her and her family. Gift of Life International is contributing $3,500 to cover additional costs associated with Malia’s surgical care.
“I want to thank everyone for being so kind and caring to my daughter and to our family,” shares Malia’s father.