By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Choithram Memorial Hospital, in partnership with the Bintumani Association, will roll out a commendable Free Pediatric Surgery initiative aimed at transforming the lives of children in need. This compassionate program will provide free, specialized surgical procedures for children under fifteen, offering hope to families who struggle to afford life-saving medical care. Scheduled to take place from March 21 to April 4, 2025, the initiative underscores Choithram’s unwavering commitment to accessible and quality healthcare.

With registration currently open, parents and guardians are urged to seize this opportunity to secure a place for their children. A team of expert German surgeons will conduct surgical interventions for conditions such as neck fistulas, cysts, soft tissue tumors, hernias, undescended testes and congenital abnormalities affecting the urogenital and gastrointestinal tracts. These critical procedures will drastically improve the well-being of young patients and with the complete elimination of costs, the program is a rare and invaluable lifeline for those in need.

Choithram Memorial Hospital has reaffirmed that the initiative aligns with its long-established mission of delivering equitable healthcare services to vulnerable communities. The German pediatric surgical team, which has been conducting similar medical missions in Sierra Leone since 2010, has already made a profound impact on the lives of many children. This year’s program builds upon that legacy, ensuring that underprivileged children receive the critical medical attention they deserve. With screenings already underway, demand is expected to surge and families are encouraged to act swiftly to secure their children’s participation.

Dr. Gowrinath M. George, Medical Superintendent at Choithram Memorial Hospital, elaborated on the registration process, emphasizing that screenings are being conducted at designated centers to assess eligibility. Once evaluations are completed, a final list of selected children will be referred to the hospital for surgery. However, certain conditions such as hydrocephalus, myelomeningoceles, clubfoot and cleft lip and palate will not be included in this year’s surgical program.

Since opening registration on February 24, 2025, the hospital has witnessed an overwhelming response, reflecting the pressing need for pediatric surgical interventions in Sierra Leone. Parents and guardians eager to register their children or obtain further details can contact the hospital at +232 76541331 or visit Choithram Memorial Hospital in Freetown from Monday to Friday.

Harish Agnani, Chief Administrator of the Choithram Group, reiterated the hospital’s steadfast dedication to making healthcare accessible for all Sierra Leoneans. He emphasized that this pediatric surgical camp represents a vital step in bridging the medical care gap for disadvantaged communities.

The success of this initiative is also attributed to the invaluable support of Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Germany, H.E. Dr. M. L. Baryoh, whose instrumental efforts helped facilitate the partnership between the Bintumani Association’s German pediatric team and Choithram Memorial Hospital.

With limited slots available, time is of the essence. This is an unprecedented opportunity for parents and guardians to ensure their children receive the life-changing medical care they need. Acting now can secure a healthier and brighter future for Sierra Leone’s young generation, reinforcing the country’s progress in advancing pediatric healthcare.