RICHARD UNDERGOES SUCCESSFUL BLOOD AUGMENTATION OPERATION

At REACT one of our values is to celebrate success stories and learn from our challenges and Richard Denu brought us both this year.

 Back in 2016 REACT met Richard and has been supporting him in diverse ways ever since. Upon a through needs assessment we identified the need for a wheelchair and back in the summer of 2017 REACT presented him not only a wheelchair but also with clothes and other educational materials. 

However, in May 2018, REACT got the news we least expected. Richard’s mother Safia called with the news that he has been admitted and requires urgent blood augmentation surgery and requested immediate financial assistance.

Safia tearfully said Richard has Mild Hydrocephalus and Arnold Chiari Malformation which means for the past 6 years, he has suffered a build-up of fluid in the cavities (ventricles) deep within the brain in excess. The excess fluid according to his doctors has increased the size of the ventricles and puts pressure on his brain. Safia said doctors have indicated the pressure of too much cerebrospinal fluid associated with hydrocephalus can damage Richard's brain tissues and cause a range of impairments in brain function therefore Richard required a blood augmentation procedure to address his situation.

Safia continued that Richard has been on the waiting list for years due to lack of funds and his situation is worsening such that he struggled to naturally ease himself and often times defecated and urinated on himself. Upon further assessment, Safia said doctors have agreed to conduct the operation for Richard at a discounted cost of 6000 Ghana Cedis (£1200 equivalent). In spite of the discount from the doctors Safia said she still felt restless as she struggled to raise the money. Safia said she had no hope and came to REACT for help. REACT Trustees had an emergency session on the matter and agreed to Crowdfund through JustGiving to help. With support of our generous donors we raised £440 excluding fees and commissions. Our Coordinator in Ghana John Tsivanyo who followed Richard throughout the process made the donation to Richard on his discharged day.

Richard, his family and the REACT fraternity is grateful for the kind gesture in giving him a 'new life'. Richard's operation was indeed successful by virtue of the kind donations and act of humanity. He has since been discharged home and looking forward to going back to school with a renewed hope and sense of purpose.

Pictures courtesy of Safia Koney