By Amin Kef (Ranger)
In a remarkable display of international medical cooperation, Choithram Memorial Hospital, in partnership with Interplast Germany, has announced the launch of a free consultation and treatment camp for patients requiring plastic surgery. The camp, which will run from January 14 to January 28, 2025, is set to provide much-needed surgical interventions for individuals suffering from specific medical conditions.
The initiative is championed by H.E. Dr. M’Baimba Lamin Baryoh, Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Germany, whose efforts have been pivotal in facilitating this life-changing opportunity for Sierra Leoneans. This collaborative effort underscores a shared commitment to improving healthcare access and offering specialized medical care to underserved communities.
A team of highly skilled plastic surgeons from Germany, many of whom have been making annual visits to Sierra Leone since 2010, will be at the forefront of the surgical camp. The camp will be led by Dr. Eric Wongo, a renowned plastic surgeon and coordinator of the initiative. His extensive experience will ensure that patients receive top-tier care throughout the program.
Patients experiencing the following medical conditions are eligible to benefit from the free services provided during the camp:
– Post-burn contractures and reconstruction
– Hand, feet or wrist disorders and deformities
– Tumors affecting the hand and feet
– Cleft lip and palate repair
These conditions, which often require specialized and costly surgical interventions, will be addressed free of charge during the two-week medical camp.
Registration for the camp will be open from December 16, 2024, to January 10, 2025. Prospective patients are encouraged to register early to secure a spot. Interested individuals can contact the hospital directly via telephone at +23276541331 or visit Choithram Memorial Hospital at Hill Station in Freetown for more information and guidance.
Dr. Gowrinath M. George, the Medical Superintendent of Choithram Memorial Hospital, expressed his profound appreciation for the collaborative efforts that made the camp possible. “This initiative is a testament to the power of partnership. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Ambassador Dr. M’Baimba Lamin Baryoh for his instrumental role in bridging the gap between Interplast Germany and Choithram Hospital,” said Dr. Gowrinath M. George.
Harish Agnani, Chief Administrator of the Choithram Group, reiterated the hospital’s longstanding commitment to providing quality healthcare for all, regardless of their financial status. “Our mission has always been to ensure that the people of Sierra Leone have access to the best medical services available. This camp is yet another way we’re making that promise a reality,” said Harish Agnani.
The free plastic surgery camp signifies a major milestone in Sierra Leone’s healthcare landscape. By offering life-changing surgeries at no cost, the initiative aims to restore hope and dignity to those afflicted by physical impairments. Such conditions often have profound social and psychological impacts, especially for children born with cleft lip and palate deformities.
This initiative aligns with Choithram Hospital’s enduring legacy of providing compassionate and high-quality medical care. Since its inception, the hospital has prioritized community welfare through similar humanitarian medical programs. This year’s surgical camp is a continuation of that noble tradition.
Patients, caregivers and the general public are encouraged to seize this rare opportunity by registering during the stipulated period. With the expertise of Interplast Germany’s surgeons and the steadfast support of Choithram’s medical team, the camp is poised to be a resounding success, delivering transformative health outcomes for many Sierra Leoneans.