Medical miracles for 14 children

Fourteen Jamaican children battling congenital heart disease recently received life-saving open-heart surgeries at the Bustamante Hospital for Children (BHC).

These transformative procedures, carried out by a team of over 50 international and local experts, have given these young patients a new lease on life.

Leading the charge was Professor Jeffrey Jacobs, renowned professor of surgery and paediatrics at the UF Health Congenital Heart Centre and founder of the Cardiac Kids Foundation of Florida.

Alongside Dr Sherard Little, cardiac surgeon at the BHC, and the hospital's skilled cardiac and nursing teams, the group executed this monumental feat in just one week.

Critical medical equipment, including heart-lung machines, heater-cooler machines, and cell savers, was donated, bolstering the hospital's ability to deliver world-class cardiac care. The mission wasn't just about saving lives - it was also a powerful investment in Jamaica's healthcare system through hands-on training and resource enhancement.

This extraordinary effort was made possible through the collaboration of the BHC, The Blood Bank, Cardiac Kids Foundation of Florida, and supporting partners, with Chain of Hope Jamaica coordinating the mission's activities to ensure a seamless operation.

Professor Jacobs' team not only restored hope to 14 families but also strengthened Jamaica's healthcare capacity, leaving a legacy of compassion and commitment to saving young lives.

"This mission underscores the power of collaboration and the shared mission of mending little hearts and transforming lives," said Professor Jacobs.