Transforming Pediatric Surgical Care in The Gambia
In April 2024, an interdisciplinary team from BC Children’s Hospital joined forces with Gambian colleagues at Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital to provide life-changing surgical care for children in need. The team—comprising pediatric surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, and clinical fellows—worked alongside Dr. Cherno Jallow, The Gambia’s only specialty-trained pediatric surgeon, to deliver both complex reconstructive procedures and urgent emergency surgeries.
Despite challenges such as limited medical supplies, power outages, and a lack of running water, the dedication of both teams ensured high-quality, safe care. Over two weeks, they performed 25 operations for children ranging from 7 months to 14 years old, strengthening local capacity and fostering long-term global partnerships.
This initiative was made possible through the support of the Institute for Global Health at BC Children’s Hospital, BC Children’s Hospital Foundation, and the University of British Columbia. The team is now fundraising to secure essential surgical supplies and medicines for future Pediatric Surgery Camps. To support this effort, please consider making a donation here.
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