The generosity of well-wishers who responded to the case of seven-year-old Ephraim Collins, who was diagnosed with hydrocephalus as an infant, has pushed the family a bit closer to its fundraising goal, although more help is needed.
Jessica Hatfield reported yesterday that there has been a steady inflow of funds since a report was published in Stabroek News two weeks ago and expressed thanks to readers on behalf of herself and Ephraim’s parents, Otto and Carlene Collins.
So far, donations through the crowdfunding site have passed the US$5,000 mark. The goal is US$85,000.
Additionally, Carlene related that the fundraiser done by UK resident Linda Bernard managed to raise just over £800.
Bernard and her husband, Andrew, had met the Collinses earlier this year during a visit to Guyana for a court hearing. Bernard shared that she had been deeply moved when she met the child and wanted to help in whatever way she could.
On October 22, she cut off her ponytail to raise funds for the cause. Bernard called the fundraiser a “brilliant success.”
Ephraim was diagnosed with hydrocephalus at the tender age of two months old.
Hydrocephalus, also referred to as ‘water on the brain,’ is a swelling of the head caused by a buildup of fluid. Ephraim’s head has grown to the size of 88 cm in these past years and his condition has impeded his ability to be mobile. He can, however, feed himself, and can utter a few words.
The Collins family has been receiving the support of Hatfield, a patron at the Ruimveldt Children’s Aid Centre, who has been campaigning heavily to fund Ephraim’s trip to Spain, where he will receive emergency surgery.
Although the surgery will be free, money still needs to be raised to cover other costs. The funds being raised are to assist with, among other things, a medivac, the medical team on board and accommodations.
To make a donation to fund Ephraim’s travel to Spain, contact can be made with Carlene at 683-3305. Donations can also be made through the crowdfunding account, which can be accessed at https://www.youcaring.com/ephriam-collins-632656.
