The mother of 18-month-old Emmanuel Rampersaud, who was born with an Anorectal Malformation, is seeking the public’s assistance to raise funds for him to undergo two surgeries in the United States.
Nadina Sookram Rampersaud yesterday told Stabroek News that the funds are needed as soon as possible so that Emmanuel can lead a normal life.
Anorectal malformation are birth defects that occur as the foetus is developing during pregnancy. With this defect, the anus and rectum do not develop properly.
Nadina explained that following his birth, Emmanuel underwent an operation during which a colostomy (a surgical procedure that brings one end of the large intestine out through the abdominal wall) was done for him to pass stool into a bag.
However, the opening subsequently became infected causing Emmanuel severe discomfort.
SHEA (Saving Hands Emergency Aid) Charity, a non-profit organisation has accepted Emmanuel’s case on June 19, 2019 and has since begun the process of securing advanced medical treatment for him in the United States.
In a letter seen by this newspaper, the organisation has since estimated the cost for the operations to be between US$15,000 and US$25,000.
However, it noted that the costs could increase, depending on the treatment needed, the number of visits required and length of Emmanuel’s stay.
Emmanuel will also more than likely need to do follow-up visits after the operations.
The amounts requested will also cover accommodation, meals and transportation.
Anyone willing to assist can contact Nadina on telephone numbers 681-5140 or 638-3346. Donations can also be made to Republic Bank account # 1424266.
