Rahael to help ‘blue’ baby

Ali, from Quesnel Street, Arima, has been diagnosed with transposition of the great arteries (TGA), and atrial and ventricular septal defects (holes in the heart). Doctors at the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex (EWMSC) said the surgery can only be done abroad. It will cost approximately $377,400.

Health Minister John Rahael said he saw Ali’s story in yesterday’s Newsday and asked for a contact number.

“We will assist whenever we can as with so many cases before.”

Rahael said the Health Ministry had contacts with non-governmental organisations abroad and it would see if there is a possibility of getting Ali into a paediatric surgical programme.

Administrative secretary for the Chest and Heart Association Robert Drayton said the social work department at the EWMSC has to send the facts about the case.

He said the association has a special paediatric fund and has helped 25 children since 2000 with the cost of surgery or medication.

Drayton said the Health Ministry provides the association with a subvention of $3,077 every quarter.

Kameel Sookdeo, Kamal’s father, is trying to set up an account at Republic Bank where funds can be deposited.