By Awa DK Conteh
A group of 41 medical personnel from the Global Health Organisation (GHO) in the United States arrived in the country on Friday, April 12th, for a five-day free medical camp. The team is on its fourth trip to The Gambia. Last year, the visiting doctors treated 4500 patients. The GHO team’s trips are coordinated by Rev Bidwell Mendy of the Calvary United Community Church in collaboration with Pastors Alliance The Gambia.
Speaking at the welcome ceremony at the Banjul International Airport, Mr Bidwell, head of the church, disclosed that during their stay, the doctors, comprising various specialists, will conduct mass treatment of people and administer medicines free of charge.
Three years ago, the team visited The Gambia and treated dozen people at different locations.
Mr. Bidwell noted that the team is expected to start the free treatment today, Monday, the 15th and will last on the 19th at the Jamisha Lower Basic School in Brikama. The school admin say the school - 3000 student capacity – is spacious enough to accommodate a large number of visiting patients. “Looking at the size of the place, I think the treatment will be easier than the previous years,” Pastor Mendy said. He informed that treatment will be held from 9am to 5pm.
“The government cannot do it all alone. That is why if you come across an opportunity like this, let it be made available to even those less privileged,” he advised.
Dr. Cardi Overholt, head of the team, and internal medicine physician in the United States expressed delight for returning for the fourth time and for working with the Global Health Organisation. “We always feel welcomed and I love the people here. It is always a privilege for us to come back,” she stated.
Speaking about her expectation, Dr. Cardi had this to say: “To share the healing message of Jesus as we talk to people, provide good medicine and a lot of education because we know that a short term mission doesn’t do a lot unless you educate people on good health”.
Mr. Dembo Bojang, Chief of Brikama South, who was speaking at the welcome ceremony, described the initiative as a great gesture for the development of The Gambia, and expressed honour for being the host of the team. He thanked Mr Bidwell for reaching out to them.
