Global Giving: Corrective Spinal Surgery for 25 Jamaican Children

This project provides surgical care for socio-economically disadvantaged Jamaican children with moderate to severe scoliosis. The surgery is needed before the child reaches 18 to avoid permanent disfigurement and life threatening complications. We will be using donated funds to purchase spinal rods and screws needed for the surgery, and to help support volunteer surgical teams. We aim to facilitate corrective spine surgeries for 25 children in 2012.

What is the issue, problem, or challenge?

240 socio-economically disadvantaged children diagnosed with moderate to severe scoliosis, are currently on a wait list for government-sponsored corrective surgery. While the cost of surgery is covered, the cost of the screws and rods for the surgery (valued at approximately $10,000 USD) are the responsibility of each child's family. Children in these situations typically do not receive surgery without desperately needed philanthropic intervention.

How will this project solve this problem?

In 2012 this project aims to cover the cost of surgical hardware, as well as logistical expenses, which are needed for surgery for up to 25 children. Funds raised through this project will cover the cost of the screws and rods for the surgery (valued at approximately $10,000 USD). They will also go toward supporting the transportation of volunteer orthopedic surgeons and the surgical support team, partnering with Duncan Tree Foundation.

Potential Long Term Impact

Through this project, up to 25 socio-economically disadvantaged children will receive disease-modifying surgery. Without surgery, these children face the prospect of permanent disfigurement, and life threatening complications as they grow due to progressive spine curvature.

Project Message

Alleviating the pain and deformity these children endure gives them a better chance of realizing their full potential, allowing them to contribute fully to the upliftment of their country.
- Dr. Kirk Campbell, Project personnel, medical advisor

To Contribute Click Here or  Text GIVE 9238 to 80088 to donate $10 to Corrective spine surgery for 25 Jamaican children. Message and data rates may apply. Only works for US mobile phones.