chernobyl heart: i want to save a child's life for christmas
It's only December 1, but I already know what I want for Christmas: I want to save one child's life. I'm hoping you will help me -- I've never asked you for anything before, have I?
This spring, Chernobyl Children's Project International will send an American medical team (led by Dr. William Novick, MD) to Ukraine. They will operate on children who have very serious heart conditions -- genetic defects that have dramatically increased in incidence since 1986. Without an operation, each of these children will die.
In 2008, we will sponsor 4 such trips to Ukraine, and save many young lives. But I would like to be personally responsible for just one life! You can give me my wish by clicking on the DONATE button on this badge (either here or above) to make a secure online donation. If I am able to raise $1,500, I will post a photo of "my" child this April. If you prefer, you can donate by clicking on the green DONATE NOW button on the upper right hand of this blog -- here's how your donation helps. Spread the word by clicking on "email this" or "share on Facebook" at the end of this post. If you're a blogger, email me and I will send you code for my badge, or tell you how to create your own.
Our children's heart surgery program in Belarus has saved almost 300 lives. Dr. Novick's surgical team focuses on both operations and training. Since the start of the Belarus program, the children's waiting list for heart surgery has plunged from 7,000 to 2,400 patients. The program has direct and measurable results. I know we can bring this life giving success story to the children of Ukraine.
Click here to read the moving story of how supporter Judy Bevilacqua responded to young heart patients in Belarus. The "cardiac kids" photo album on the left side of this blog shows some of the kids who have received life saving operations.
Many thanks to blogger MarkR of the "Chernobyl and Eastern Europe Blog" for supporting this effort and placing a "badge" on his site at: http://chernobylee.blogspot.com/
If you are interested in a jounalistic view of what is happening in that region, particularly in Ukraine, where things are changing daily, his blog is a must-read.
Posted by: Kathy Ryan | December 09, 2007 at 02:21 PM