Liam Brummel, who was born prematurely at the Suddie Public Hospital last month, and whose mother subsequently died of dengue fever complications, was discharged from that facility’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) on July 20.
Liam was born to 19-year-old Lanita Jacobs, at just 35 weeks, weighing a fragile 2,050 grammes, via c-section. Jacobs had been eight months pregnant when she was admitted to the hospital on June 26, 2024, suffering from severe bleeding and dengue fever. Her condition deteriorated rapidly, leading to her transfer to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where she tragically succumbed to her illness.
Liam’s early days were a battle for survival, marked by 23 arduous days in the NICU.
He required five platelet transfusions, five fresh frozen plasma (FFP) transfusions, and one pack cell (PC) transfusion to combat the severe complications from dengue fever and sepsis.
Yet, against all odds, Liam emerged victorious, his tiny body free of infection and with normal blood work results upon discharge. Dr Kalesh Latchminarine, head of the neonatal department and a dedicated paediatrician, praised his team’s relentless efforts to save Liam’s life. The team included Dr Yelina Acosta, Dr Azalia Luke, and nurses from the Cuban brigade, along with Guyanese nurse Alicia Belle.
Despite facing respiratory distress that required non-invasive respiratory support, Liam’s resilience and unique ways of communicating his needs deeply touched the hearts of his caregivers.
Liam’s father Kevin Brummel, though devastated by the loss of his beloved wife, was grateful for the survival of his son. He expressed his heartfelt thanks to the Suddie Public Hospital staff, particularly Dr Latchminarine and his team, for their unwavering dedication and care.
Regional Health Officer Dr Ranjeev Singh affirmed the continued support of the NICU for mothers and their babies. He highlighted the government’s substantial investment of millions of dollars to ensure the neonatal department is equipped with the necessary resources to save precious lives.
Since its commissioning, the NICU at Suddie Public Hospital has admitted 41 babies in the past six months, underscoring its vital role in the region’s neonatal care.
