Soroptimist hands over supplies to MCMH

A wide range of medical supplies was on Thursday, March 20, handed over to the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital by the local chapter of Soroptimist International.{{more}}

Representing the organisation at the handing over, Nina Maloney said the medical supplies came as a result of a visit to the country by Vincentians Walter Bellingy and his wife, who are living abroad.

Maloney explained that she had a relative who was ill and was warded at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital. She said, on one occasion the couple accompanied her on a visit to the hospital at the female medical ward.

“There was a patient there and she was out of pampers, so they got a little concerned about that. I had to explain that it is not the responsibility of the hospital to supply these commodities,” Maloney said.

She added that they purchased pampers for the person and during a subsequent conversation with the Bellingys, they made the decision to assist the hospital.

“They said they would send it to me. I told them to send it in my name, but I prefer it to go to an organisation and I chose Soroptimist because we have a long-standing relationship with this hospital,” she said.

Some of the supplies include: bandages, cotton swabs, hydrogen peroxide, infant fever medication, disposable diapers, among others.

President of the local chapter of Soroptimist International Gail Davis said the organisation, is a community based organisation, geared towards transforming the lives of women and girls.

Davis said they are confident the supplies delivered will go a long way towards improving the lives and health of many persons.

Addressing the media, Minister of Health Clayton Burgin thanked the Bellingys and Soroptimist for their efforts in donating to the hospital.

Burgin assured Soroptimist that officials in his ministry will treasure the gifts, as they continue to battle the financially troubled economy.

According to Burgin, the donation came at an opportune time in the development of the health care services.

“These are new and exciting times in the delivery of health care. We are seeking to achieve this sense of renewal and reorganisation with the support of other friendly governments, reputable organisations and patriotic citizens in St Vincent and the Grenadines and the diaspora,” he added.