Account set up for Moya Moya victim

Moya Moya victim Stephen Hunte has been able to secure a visa to enter into the United States but is still trying to secure funds for the operation which cannot be done locally. Stephen is a victim of the rare disease called Moya Moya which causes blood vessels leading to the brain to narrow and close. He requires bypass surgery which involves the connection of normal blood vessels in the scalp to blood vessels on the surface of the brain to allow blood flow. The estimated cost of the surgery is US$60,000. Stephen, of Kelly Village, Caroni, is a standard five student of Fatima RC Primary School but was unable to sit this year’s SEA exams because of his illness.

Since Stephen’s story was published in the Sunday Newsday two weeks ago, members of the public and corporate bodies have responded, favourably. Arrangements are being made by one insurance company to acquire a plane ticket for the 12-year-old to Boston, Massachusetts. His mother, Gloria Maharaj has also been able to set up a savings account, number 1333540, at First Citizens Bank, Independence Square, Port-of-Spain. The account can be accessed through any branch of FCB. Gloria can be reached at 799-6452.