Karen Hendrickson, the CEO of Rabito Clinic Limited, with over 45 years of providing dermatological and general medical services. However, her impact extends far beyond the confines of her clinic. As the founding member and one of six trustees of the Children’s Heart Foundation-Ghana (CHF), Karen has been instrumental in saving the lives of over 250 Ghanaian children in need of life-saving open-heart surgeries.
For the past 15 years, the Children’s Heart Foundation has been a vital lifeline for Ghanaian families facing the harrowing reality of a child in need of urgent cardiac intervention. In a country where access to specialized medical care can be limited, especially for complex procedures like open-heart surgery, CHF has emerged as a beacon of hope. The foundation operates on a simple yet profound premise: no child should die due to the inability to afford life-saving treatment.
Karen’s dedication to CHF’s mission stems from her deep-rooted commitment to Ghana, where she has resided for over 23 years. Describing her experience as a “fantastic roller coaster of adventures,” Karen’s passion for the country and its people is palpable in her tireless efforts to improve healthcare accessibility.
The process for families seeking assistance from CHF is straightforward but crucial. It begins with a diagnosis at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, where medical professionals identify children in urgent need of cardiac intervention. Upon recommendation, parents are directed to CHF, where they receive personalized support. A letter detailing the child’s condition, treatment costs, and urgency is submitted to the foundation, guiding their prioritization process.
Funding for surgeries and post-operative care is sourced through various channels, including corporate sponsorships, donations from affluent individuals, and fundraising events like raffles and auctions. Over the years, CHF’s efforts have saved the lives of over 200 children, providing them with a chance at a healthy future.
Beyond the surgical intervention, CHF remains committed to supporting families through every step of the process. From covering aftercare costs to providing transportation and accommodation for families who often travel long distances for treatment, the foundation alleviates the financial burden associated with critical medical interventions.
Looking ahead, Karen envisions a future where CHF’s impact extends even further. The foundation’s ultimate goal is to establish a dedicated hospital in Ghana, offering comprehensive cardiac care to children across sub-Saharan Africa. This envisioned hospital would not only provide life-saving surgeries but also eliminate the financial barriers that prevent families from seeking treatment. With adequate funding, parents would no longer have to worry about medical bills or accommodation, allowing them to focus solely on their child’s recovery.
Karen Hendrickson’s unwavering dedication to CHF’s mission embodies the spirit of compassion and resilience. Through her leadership and advocacy, countless lives have been transformed, offering hope and healing to families across Ghana and beyond. As she continues her journey, Karen remains a shining example of the power of philanthropy and the profound impact it can have on communities in need.
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