A 12-year-old child is currently nursing severe burns that he sustained during an explosion almost a month ago and non-governmental organisation Saving Hands Emergency Aid (SHEA) is currently seeking the public’s help in raising funds to offset his medical treatment overseas.
Injured is Dwain Deputran, of Morgenstond, Berbice River.
Deputran is currently warded at the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPH) with third degree burns to about 40% of his body including to his hands, feet and face.
The incident occurred on afternoon of June 19 at Morgenstond.
Sunday Stabroek understands that Dwain’s mother had just fueled a boat owned by the family.
He then attempted to pump water that was in the boat, when an explosion occurred.
“The boat burn down with he. I did load some gas first and little gas like it get somewhere and when it go fah start now… the fire flare up,” the child’s mother, Shonella Deputran, said yesterday.
Dwain was alone in the boat at the time. He plunged overboard after the explosion.
In a recent Facebook post, SHEA made urgent request for funds so that Deputran can seek medical assistance in the United States (US).
“Despite his doctors’ incredible efforts to treat young Dwain, his injuries require advanced technology and a facility which is better equipped to manage his case and save his life,” the post read.
SHEA’s local representative, Sita Sugrim, yesterday told Sunday Stabroek that the estimated cost for Dwain’s treatment is approximately US$20,000 which is equivalent to $4.1 million.
The figure will cover expenses, including his medical fees, accommodation and meals. Dwain will be accompanied by his mother.
Up to yesterday, Sugrim said, the organisation had raised just over US$5,000.
She noted that time is essential and as a result Dwain needs to undergo the surgery very soon. Sugrim explained that SHEA has already secured treatment services for Dwain in the US and has also finished coordinating his transfer, including the logistics and immigration requirements.
At the moment, only the lack of funds is preventing him to travel overseas. Anyone willing to assist Dwain can visit https://savinghandsemergencyaid.org/dwain-deputran?fbclid=IwAR2eNibCHQ51ii9CSfyQo9ea_t0OZ1c71B9nV1Tp00_Bt6NsrSYeRguTUXA or the SHEA Facebook page.
Donations can also be made to Demerara Bank account # 006002041325.
