MahamaCares covers GH¢210,840 surgery for ailing midwife

The Ghana Medical Trust Fund, popularly known as MahamaCares, has fully funded a life-saving brain surgery for a 36-year-old midwife, Rebecca Odarquaye, following public appeals for support.

Ms Odarquaye, who works as a midwife, was diagnosed with a brain aneurysm and advised by medical specialists that urgent surgery was required. The cost of the procedure, estimated at GH¢210,840, was beyond the financial capacity of her family.

Speaking after the intervention, Ms Odarquaye said the diagnosis was distressing and left her uncertain about her future.

“When the doctors told me about the condition, I was scared. I kept thinking about my family and the women I still want to help as a midwife,” she said.

Her situation became publicly known after JoyNews carried her story, prompting donations from individuals who contributed GH¢17,000 towards her medical care. The amount, however, remained insufficient to cover the cost of the surgery.

Following an assessment of her case, the Ghana Medical Trust Fund approved full funding for the procedure. Health Policy Advisor at the Fund, Dr Norbert Kipo, said the intervention reflects the purpose of the initiative.

“This is exactly why the Ghana Medical Trust Fund was established by the President—to ensure that no Ghanaian is left to suffer or die simply because they cannot afford critical medical care,” Dr Kipo stated.

He confirmed that the Fund settled the entire GH¢210,840 bill for the surgery performed at Eurocare Hospital. According to him, the money previously donated by the public has been retained to support Ms Odarquaye’s recovery.

“The funds raised earlier have been set aside for her post-surgery care, including medication and recovery support,” he said.

Dr Kipo also expressed appreciation to President John Dramani Mahama for establishing the Trust Fund and called on individuals and organisations to support the initiative.

“We are grateful to President Mahama for this intervention, and we encourage Ghanaians to support the Trust Fund so we can continue to save lives,” he added.

Ms Odarquaye said she is hopeful of making a full recovery and returning to her professional duties after treatment.

“All I want is to recover fully and go back to helping pregnant women bring new life into the world,” she said.