The Children’s Heart Foundation Ghana (CHFGh) recently organised a successful pre-fundraising health walk on Saturday, February 24, 2024 at the Labadi Beach Hotel. The event drew more than 300 participants from various walks of life and age groups, all united in their support for children with congenital heart diseases (CHDs).
The primary goal of the walk was to raise awareness and funds for CHD treatment, with enthusiastic participation from individuals, families and corporate groups. The CHFGh aims to extend this impact to its upcoming Fundraising Ball on Saturday, May 4, at the Labadi Beach Hotel.
Established in 2011, The Children’s Heart Foundation Ghana tirelessly works to raise awareness and funds for CHD treatment in Ghana.
The organisation is led by a dedicated Board of Trustees – Mrs. Jacqui Ahomka-Lindsay, Mrs. Karen Hendrickson, Mrs. Grace Krobo Edusei, Ms. Folake Ojo, Ms. Dzigbordi Kwaku-Dosoo and Surama King; and supported by many wonderful teams of volunteers.
With an average of 200 children diagnosed with CHD each year in Ghana, requiring potentially life-saving open-heart surgeries that can cost up to US$9,000, the foundation’s work is crucial in ensuring equitable access to healthcare for these young patients. Mrs. Jacqui Ahomka Lindsay, President of the Board of Trustees, expressed her gratitude, stating: “The turnout for our health walk was incredibly heartwarming. It is inspiring to see so many people coming together to support our cause”.
The funds raised will enable The Children’s Heart Foundation Ghana to continue providing critical medical care and support to children with CHDs, offering them a chance at a healthier, brighter future. Since its inception, the foundation has supported over 220 children, with an average of 20 children undergoing critical surgery annually, totalling more than US$2.25million over the last 13 years.
Despite these achievements, the increasing number of cases highlights the urgent need for more support. Currently, there are 53 children requiring almost US$500,000 on the foundation’s waitlist, awaiting support.
The Children’s Heart Foundation Ghana extends its gratitude to partners, including Cross Train, The Pilates Studio, Labadi Beach Hotel, Grace Centre for Growth & Excellence, Biggo Drinks, Tema International School and TGNE Studios. Other supporters include Rabito Clinic, Twi, Verna Water, Bfit4life, Fairafric, Fruity Habit, as well as Nissie Creatives.
Looking ahead, The Children’s Heart Foundation Ghana is gearing up for its annual Fundraising Ball, a pivotal event featuring live music, entertainment and an auction. Mrs. Karen Hendrickson, Trustee in charge of Public Relations, encourages everyone to join for “an evening of hope, inspiration and fundraising that will make a real difference in the lives of these children”.
The Children’s Heart Foundation Ghana is a non-profit, non-governmental, voluntary organisation committed to promoting health and the socio-economic well-being of children with heart disorders. The foundation exists to provide financial relief to families who cannot afford expensive but life-saving surgery.