According to a medical report signed by Dr. Sarah Pearce of Medical Research Council (MRC), in 2023 Omar reported a one year history of left sided chest pain radiating into his back, associated with palpitation.
“He had an echocardiogram performed which showed an ascending aortic aneurysm with annuloaortic ectasis and severe aortic regurgitation. He was admitted to the ward to assess risk of dissection and to discuss with Dr Jobe, cardiologist from Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital, Banjul.”
“Dr. Jobe advised that the chest pain is likely secpondary to severe aortic regurgitation; however, there is significant of rupture without surgical repair. He advised beta-blockade to reduce heart rate and risk of rupture.”
“Unfortunately, there is no cardiopthoracic surgery in The Gambia. Omar’s family is therefore looking for sponsorship to have surgery performed outside of The Gambia. His condition causes a reduced quality of life as he is restricted in his activities by exertional chest pain,” the medical report said.
Hulaimatou Jallow, a close relative to the patient said the family has been trying to get the needed resources to take the young boy for overseas treatment without success.
She therefore called on all and sundry to support the young boy to travel to developed countries for treatment.
“We want financial support from all for ticket fees, and medical bills so that the boy gets treatment for the chest pain,” she appealed.
Anyone willing to help Omar can call +220 7259288.
