–GPHC, GOLI saving lives in collaboration

THE Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), in partnership with Gift of Life International (GOLI), successfully concluded its second paediatric cardiac collaboration of the year, from August 4 to 8, bringing advanced heart care to children across Guyana battling serious congenital heart conditions.
This vital initiative united local medical experts with a 25-member international team, led by Dr. Rodrigo Soto, to perform two critical types of lifesaving procedures: Paediatric cardiac catheterizations and open-heart surgeries.

Throughout the mission, the teams completed 10 cardiac catheterizations and six open-heart surgeries, directly aiding 16 young patients.
In addition to surgical interventions, the team conducted comprehensive paediatric cardiology screenings for 80 children, identifying those in need of immediate treatment, future follow-ups, or reassurance that no further intervention was required.

To date, 13 of the 16 patients have been safely discharged, with the remaining three expected to return home soon.
Beyond direct patient care, the collaboration focused heavily on building local capacity. The visiting team provided mentorship, hands-on training, and skill transfer opportunities to GPHC physicians, nurses, and support staff.

This knowledge-sharing effort aims to strengthen Guyana’s ability to provide high-quality paediatric cardiac care locally, reducing reliance on overseas treatment.
“The GOLI–GPHC partnership continues to transform lives while building local expertise,” said Dr. Sara Singh, Head of the Paediatric Department at GPHC. “Our shared commitment is to ensure that every child in Guyana with a heart condition has access to the care they need, right here at home,” she added.

The Gift of Life International team is scheduled to return for their third and final mission of 2025 from December 6 to 16, continuing their life-saving work and expanding hope for more children to live healthy, fulfilling lives.