By Millicent Senava Mannah
The Holy Spirit Hospital in Makeni marked a historic milestone with the official opening and dedication of the Dr. Julia Marie Scott Memorial Intensive Care Unit (ICU) on January 10, 2025. The ceremony brought together dignitaries, healthcare professionals and members of the local community to honor the memory of Dr. Julia Scott, whose generosity and compassion have left an enduring legacy despite her never having visited Sierra Leone.
The event opened with a Mass celebrated by Bishop Bob John Koroma of the Catholic Diocese of Makeni. Adding a deeply personal touch to the service, three of Dr. Scott’s children; Olivia, Ben and Elliana, participated by doing readings.
Dr. Alexis Iccarino, a Board Member of the Healey International Relief Foundation (HIRF), highlighted the organization’s dedication to improving healthcare in Sierra Leone since 2001. Speaking about Dr. Scott’s contribution, she said:
“This ICU is a gift from Dr. Julia Scott, who passed away from cancer but was deeply moved by the stories of Sierra Leone shared by her husband, also a member of our Board. This general ICU is designed to serve every patient in need of critical care and we are proud to support a country that continues to face tremendous healthcare challenges.”
The ICU, equipped with five beds and advanced medical equipment, is a significant addition to the hospital’s services, addressing the dire need for intensive care facilities in the region.
Osman Kofi Tarawallie, Chiefdom Speaker of Gbanti Chiefdom in Bombali District, emphasized the significance of the project for the local community.
“While we may not have diamonds in our chiefdom, our healthcare system is growing. The establishment of this ICU fills a major gap,” he said. “As a Muslim, I am honored to be part of this Mass and dedication, believing it to be a prayer for those who are sick and suffering.”
Dr. Patrick Turay, Medical Director of Holy Spirit Hospital, expressed his excitement and gratitude for the new facility.
“We have longed for an ICU within this hospital. Previously, we had to refer critically ill patients to the Makeni Government Regional Hospital or even to Freetown. Now, with this well-equipped ICU, we can provide life-saving care right here,” he said. “We are immensely grateful to our donor partners for making this project a reality.”
The dedication of the ICU represents a transformative step forward for healthcare in Northern Sierra Leone. The facility was funded by Dr. Julia Scott’s family and implemented by the Healey International Relief Foundation, reflecting a shared commitment to improving health outcomes in the region.
As the ribbon was cut, attendees celebrated not just the opening of a medical facility but the promise of hope and healing it brings to the region. The Dr. Julia Marie Scott Memorial ICU is poised to save countless lives, bridging a critical gap in healthcare and embodying the enduring impact of Dr. Scott’s compassionate legacy.
