Once again the Cayman Heart Fund has used donations to purchase lifesaving cardiac care equipment for the HSA. In helping to support improvements to the department, the Cayman based charity, has helped to donate a much desired neonatal cardiac probe, which joins previous donations of an Electrocardiography Machine (ECG) and four mannequins to the Advanced Cardiac Life Support Training program.

Mr David Dinner, Chairman of the Cayman Heart Fund said they were delighted to provide the HSA with this equipment. “Over 400 participants took part in this year’s Cayman Heart Fund Discovery Day 5k Walk/Run, and the proceeds from which, teamed with a generous donation from Mr. and Mrs. Agar of Agar Corporation Ltd, ensured the equipment was in place as soon as possible”, Mr Dinner said.

“Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) is one of the main sources of health problems here in the Cayman Islands. The Cayman Heart fund is a non-profit and non-government organization striving to bring awareness to heart and circulatory diseases. We realize the struggle that those who have cardiovascular disease go through and are dedicated to making a difference and reducing the likelihood of early death,” Mr Dinner said.

HSA Chief Executive Officer, Ms Lizzette Yearwood said, “This great contribution to the neo-natal and children’s ward will give the department the ability to diagnose right here on island, rather than flying the children overseas. This is not only cost effective, but saves invaluable time in the diagnosis stage, meaning children and their families no longer need to undertake tense journeys for testing. We are very thankful to the Cayman Heart Fund and their donations to help enhance our patient’s experience.”

Dr Marlene Craigie, HSA Radiologist was present to accept this generous donation. “What sets this probe apart from others is the unique fact that it was specifically designed for children ages 14 and below,” Dr. Marlene Craigie said. “The probes we previously had were mainly for the adult heart but this one is catered to children and the resolution is of a much higher quality.”

For more information about the Cayman Heart Fund, visit www.caymanheartfund.com or for more info about the Cayman Islands Health Services Authority, please visit www.hsa.ky.

Photo caption (L to R): Richard Jones, HSA sonographer; Dr. Marlene Craigie, HSA radiologist; Pamela Vaughn-Duncan, Radiology Manager; David Dinner, Cayman Heart Fund Chairman; Mr & Mrs. Agar