In a heartwarming display of hometown pride and philanthropy, former Leone Stars midfielder, Rodney Strasser, has illuminated the Princess Christian Maternity Hospital (PCMH) “Cottage” in Freetown with a significant donation.
The Rodney Strasser Foundation, in collaboration with the Sick Pikin Project, has bestowed upon the PCMH a 100 KVA generator and 325 liters of diesel fuel, marking a pivotal moment in the hospital’s battle against frequent electricity outages.
Inspired by a viral plea shedding light on the hospital’s plight, Strasser, himself born at the PCMH, swiftly rallied to the cause, leveraging his football career as a beacon of hope for those in need.
Ishmael Alfred Charles, representing the Sick Pikin Project, hailed Strasser’s generosity, underscoring the crucial role of the fuel donation in sustaining the generator’s operation.
Dr. Amadu Sesay, upon receiving the life-changing gift, extended heartfelt thanks to Strasser and the Sick Pikin Project, acknowledging their pivotal role in alleviating the hospital’s energy woes and enhancing healthcare delivery.
Dr. Jeredine George, the catalyst behind the online campaign, expressed profound gratitude for Strasser’s quick response, recognizing the tangible impact the donation would have on patient care.
Dr. George’s initial social media post shed light on the dire consequences of power outages at the hospital, revealing the challenges faced by healthcare workers and patients alike.
The blackout led to using phone torches for examinations and left patients in need of oxygen, including unborn babies, without essential care. Tragically, a baby was lost due to distress before delivery, underscoring the urgent need for uninterrupted power supply in medical facilities.
Despite efforts to mitigate the impact through a solar power system and limited generator use, the hospital struggled to meet basic needs, leading to surgeries being performed under challenging conditions and medication administration in the dark.
The outcry also highlights the disparity in healthcare provision, with the children’s hospital on the same compound enjoying uninterrupted power.
With roots firmly planted in Freetown, Strasser’s unwavering commitment to uplifting his community shines as brightly as the lights now adorning the Princess Christian Maternity Hospital, illuminating a path towards a brighter, healthier future for all.
