Finances

The daily fee for being in the hospital is 500 Francs, about one dollar.  The patient is charged for each lab test, x-ray, medication and surgical procedure.  Marcel who spent 2 weeks in the hospital with his cerebral malaria had a bill of $250.  His mother is handicapped and his grandmother is the sole provider for the family.  She was able to pay $17. 

Donations in our name to MDA allowed us to cover the rest of his bill and allow him to go home. 

Thank you all for your continued support. 

Marcel

Marcel is an eight year old boy who was admitted with high fever and lethargy 2 weeks ago.  He quickly became more obtunded and developed status epilepticus (non stop seizures).  He required an IV Valium drip and IV Phenobarbital to control his seizures.  His tests indicated that he had cerebral malaria.   He remained in a coma and I hesitated each morning before entering the PEDS Ward, wondering if Marcel would still be there. 

He was and after a few days he opened his eyes.  Over the next week he gradually woke up and today he was finally able to walk.  He is not totally back to normal yet but we are all overjoyed with his recovery to date and are optimistic about his complete recovery.

Marcel with his twin brother

Marcel standing up today