By Sallieu S. Kanu
The Sick Pikin Project International is thrilled to announced that baby Esther Margai and her mother have returned from New Delhi, India, after a successful surgery.
Esther’s journey has been filled with challenges. Over a year ago, the Sick Pekin Project brought her case to the attention of the public. At that time, she was 19 months old, suffering from a mass in her left maxillary region that had been progressively increasing in size. The mass extended to the opposite side of her face, with her gum gradually projecting outside.
Medical reports indicated that the lesion measured 34.5×20.3mm and was anechoic. Esther experienced difficulty eating and relied primarily on a fluid diet. Despite seeking treatment at various hospitals in Freetown, her condition continued to deteriorate. It was advised that her condition could only be treated overseas due to the absence of maxillofacial surgical services in Sierra Leone.
Thus, a timely referral for appropriate consultation and treatment abroad was strongly recommended, leading to her travel to India for the surgery.
“Unfortunately, Esther did not receive funding from the Government of Sierra Leone, posing a significant challenge for the project. However, through the generous contributions of various individuals and organizations, we were able to reach our target,” The Sick Pikin Project said in the statement.
“We extend our deepest gratitude to Vista Bank Limited Sierra Leone, Save The Future Generation UK, Hajja Rashida Netherlands, her family and friends, Vicki Middleton, donors from Charles’ 40th birthday celebration, Umaru Fofana, Dr. Kadijatu Grace Ahene, and Dr. Isatu Kakay Diallo, as well as all those who attended or purchased tickets for the charity concert. We are also grateful to the numerous donors who contributed during our street begging campaign and those who donated anonymously for their immeasurable support and love.”
The Sick Pikin Project said that with funds received from the aforementioned institutions and individuals, they were able to send Esther and her mother to India, and they have returned to Sierra Leone with great excitement.
“We humbly appeal to our compassionate and generous donors to continue their support. Your contributions have been instrumental in saving the lives of sick children in Sierra Leone, and we implore you to join us in our mission to save the lives of other vulnerable sick children in our beloved nation. For donation inquiries, please contact us at +23276722736 or +23276793010.”
The Project sincerely appreciates the continuous support of its donors and remain committed to its mission of providing medical assistance to sick children in Sierra Leone.