The need for a self-sustaining congenital heart program in Kenya is profound. Over 10,000 babies are born each year in the country with a congenital heart defect, yet the country has no dedicated congenital heart program to treat these children. Lacking access to modern medical cardiac care, many of these children fail to live past their early childhood years. In addition, a significant number of children and young people in Kenya and East Africa suffer from heart disease due to poor living conditions. Bacteria found in untreated water can lead to rheumatic fever, which often results in damage to heart valves. Children with rheumatic heart disease cannot run and play like healthy children. They need heart surgery to be able to live like other children.
With little or no resources, where can the families of these children turn?
They can turn to the Hearts for Kids Program of the Take Heart Association Project (THAP).
Success Stories
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Moses"My son, Moses was diagnosed with a congenital heart disease when he was few months old. As a young single mother with no viable income, getting the required hefty surgery fee was way beyond my reach. Then a friend introduced me to THAP that sponsored my son's heart surgery at The Mater Hospital in 2009. Since then THAP has been providing for my child's post-operation care. I shall always be indebted to THAP for touching my child's life in such a big way." - His mother. |
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PatriciaSuccessfully operated on at Aswan Heart Center, Aswan, Egypt, a new heart facility built by Chain of Hope’s founder, Sir Magdi Yacoub’s foundation in 2010. Is doing well. |
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AbigaelSuccessfully operated on recently in Israel by Save a Child’s Heart. THAP is working with her parents to monitor her progress. |
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MercyRitaSuccessfully operated on at The Mater Hospital in Nairobi, Kenya on April 22, 2009. MercyRita is recovering well. |
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RamadhanOperated on at Mater Hospital in July, 2009. He is recovering well and we continue to monitor his progress. |
