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I founded and co-founded a couple of companies: Redington and mallowstreet; I write about issues of the day that touch me and make me think. Mostly about how to make things better.

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They Always Say It’s Impossible. Until It’s Done.

A Race Against TIme and Cold-Hearted Bureaucracy

A few times in your life, but maybe never, you get to witness something heroic and awe-inspiring that changes your perception of humanity, the world, God and yourself. Perhaps once, you may get to play your own part in it. Last weekend, that happened and it has changed me.

I have started writing this in Accra, Ghana, 3,100 miles from home, still in awe at what just took place.

The Background: Six weeks ago I discovered that one of my school friends was very sick in Accra with a major heart condition. He had been told that open heart bypass surgery was his only option. For that he would have to go to India. Another good friend, Professor Nicholas Ossei-Gerning, Consultant Interventional Cardiologist at University Hospital of Wales (“UHW”) looked at the angiogram and said “I can treat him with angioplasty. He doesn’t need a bypass”.

So, he applied to the UK Home Office for a visa that would allow him to travel to the United Kingdom for emergency treatment on compassionate grounds and sent all the supporting documentation they could reasonably have needed, including a letter from a leading heart surgeon explaining that he had a cardiac condition that would be fatal if he is not treated urgently. We had raised all the necessary funding to pay for his treatment in full and we sent the evidence. The Home Office denied him the visa. Said, in effect, that they didn’t believe his application. Said he had failed to prove he would not go on the run if they let him into the UK. To ram it home, they said: “By the way, you have no right of appeal.”

WhatsApp-Image-20160608

You can read the sorry story in my last piece Dear Home Office: The Quality of Mercy is Not Strain’d. It was shabby. Not our finest hour.

My friend’s name is David. In that earlier blog, I called him “John” because he wasn’t well enough to ask if he minded me using his real name. Now, I have asked David, and he replied:

“Absolutely! Tell everyone what happened and let’s make things change.”

So, this is what happened after the UK Home Office said Visa Denied on Friday, 27 May 2016:

Friday 3 June 2016

09:30 City of London

City of London

Pamela (David’s wife) calls me from Accra. She and David are going to re-apply for the visa. It will take a couple of weeks but they don’t have a choice. Suddenly, David is having severe chest pains, dizziness – cannot breathe properly. He is being taken to the Military Hospital in Accra. Please help, she says. She is about to lose her husband. I hear the rising panic in her voice and her distress.

09:32

I call Nick (the surgeon) and tell him. He says: this is bad news. David is probably having a heart attack and, given the angiogram pictures we have from last week, he is unlikely to make it. I ask Nick what he is doing for the weekend and he says, “For the first time in a long time, I am just going to put my feet up and watch the footie”. We talk some more and 30 seconds later, we agree that David’s only hope is to get Nick to Accra immediately. If David is still alive when we arrive, Nick will operate. If we can find a cath lab. I say I shall book flights and find a cath lab. He says he is going to see his Clinical Director at UHW to make a plan, and we agree to speak at 13:00. I need to source a cath lab.

09:50

I call Pamela, she says David is in the ICU and on oxygen, but he is stabilising. Two seats left on BA; I book the flights.

10:00

Turns out there is a single functioning cath lab in Accra and it is run by Dr Enoch Anaglate. He uses it mainly for angiograms. It isn’t set up for the kind of surgery Nick needs to do. Also, Dr Anaglate is on a trip to India and so his cath lab is unfortunately unavailable. I call his mobile phone and it goes to voicemail. Three times. I send him a WhatsApp message and after a few seconds the tiny grey ticks go blue. Somewhere in India, Enoch Anaglate has read my message.

10:05

Dr Anaglate replies on WA. He is arriving back in Accra at lunchtime in two days time, on Sunday. Nick can use the cath lab to operate from 2 pm Sunday afternoon. Game on.

12:00

We need travel visas. This is not a trip to France or Germany. No visa, no fly. No exceptions. A visa application usually takes three days and we need a visa now. Three days is too late. I call my father (who knows people) and he says to call SH at the High Commission. “She’s my patient and will tell you what you need to do.”

SH is not around but her deputy is very helpful and sympathetic. But the visa office shuts at noon and it’s impossible to process anything until Monday. We don’t have until Monday.

13:00

Nick has run a detailed planning exercise with his Clinical Director and is bringing all the equipment he can reasonably carry in a giant canvas bag. Stents, balloons, syringes, local anaesthetic. You know, standard weekend complex interventional cardiology angioplasty travel kit.

stents

14:00

My contacts in Accra procure an official letter addressed to British Airways informing them that we will be issued with emergency visas on arrival. It is stamped by the Ghanaian Immigration Department. There will also be a note on the boarding manifest stating “Allow to Travel”. We have the visa thing covered off.

14:30

Check in online. Print boarding passes. Flight leaves LHR at 13:30 on Saturday arriving Accra 18:50. Print Immigration Letter. We are ready. Call Pamela. She is, to understate it, very happy. David is still stable and on oxygen but very weak. Pamela hands him the phone. I tell him that we are coming to him. Mountain Mohammed time.

19:30

I have dinner in Chelsea with my wife to celebrate our 27th wedding anniversary and I tell her I am going to Accra with Nick, back Tuesday.

Saturday 4 June

11:00

I arrive at LHR to find Nick in Costa Coffee with an enormous canvas bag. We head over to the BA counter.

BA counter

I produce the official letter from our sponsor in Accra and stamped by Ghana Immigration. BA guy says: “That’s not the right document. I need to see an official letter from Ghana Immigration stating clearly that your visas are waiting for you. Otherwise, you cannot fly to Accra today”. Very calmly, we explain that David is in need of immediate cardiac surgery and we have to fly today; they say thank you for explaining that so clearly; you are not flying without the right documentation.

This is not good. This is really not good.

I call my contacts in Accra, and explain that we have an hour to get an official letter to the BA desk here at London Heathrow. Nick calls his own contacts. We call a lot of people.

12:00 

The official letter from the Immigration guys in Accra has not arrived. We call the Deputy High Commissioner in London on FaceTime. She is at home in her kitchen having brunch and BA says they can’t take her seriously because she is in her kitchen. She asks where else she would be on Saturday morning. It doesn’t help.

She shows them her ID over FaceTime. It does not work. BA guy says: “There is a process, and this isn’t part of it”. Gate closes in 40 minutes.

12:20

Still nothing. Half of Accra seems to be calling BA but they are resolute. “We’ll get fined £25,000  per passenger if we fly you. Get the official Immigration Letter or you cannot go. Gate closes in 20 minutes.

This isn’t about missing a flight to Vegas or Mauritius. If we miss this flight, David’s life is in serious danger. I am trying to stay calm, but I am close to the limit.

12:30

Nick and I explain once again that THERE IS SOMEONE WHO WILL NOT SURVIVE MUCH LONGER and we HAVE TO CATCH THIS FLIGHT. PLEASE!!

BA has now worked out that there really is someone who will not survive much longer. They are all calling Accra and Accra is calling them. Mobile phones are going off everywhere. But still no letter. Still no fly. I begin to suspect David isn’t the only person in danger of having a coronary.

12:31

Michaela on the BA desk smiles. A letter has arrived with the required heading, format and signature. We are good to go! Gate closes in four minutes. We get there in three.

19:00

Over the Sahara

Sunset – Sahara Desert

21:00

We arrive in Accra, Ghana. We pay our three hundred bucks, (all official, folks) and our visas are duly issued.

Immigration and Passport

 

21:50

We collect our stuff from the carousel. I sense Nick thinks I am overdoing it with the selfies. He’s probably right.

IMG_8830

22:05

We arrive at the Military Hospital in Accra (known to all as “Thirty Seven”) and are ushered into the Intensive Care Unit. David is clearly weak and breathless but he cannot hide his elation at seeing us. Nick checks David’s notes; then we gather around his bed, join hands with the nurses and pray for a successful operation tomorrow, Sunday. The Lord’s Day.

IMG_8844

Sunday 5 June

10:00

I interview Nick and record it on my iPhone. He talks me through the planned angioplasty procedure; but this is unknown territory and he is a bit anxious.

12:30

David’s cousin, Naana Halm, picks us up and we drive to the clinic where the operation will take place. It’s a small single storey building in the middle of Osu, one of Accra’s bustling districts. It is a long way from being Grey’s Anatomy’s Seattle Grace Hospital. A very long way.

David is already there and so is Pamela, his wife. Dr Anaglate is waiting for us. He is clearly keen to help. He explains to Nick, however, that this is a mobile cath lab. Nick looks at me.

13:00

The family’s pastor arrives and prays for David; a prayer of strong confidence and faith.

14:00

Nick makes final preparations. There are three other people in the theatre with him including Dr Anaglate but two of them are apparently in training.

“Let’s go to war!” he says!

Nick Operating

I think to myself: At this moment, given the setting, this is probably the most demanding operation being performed anywhere on the planet.

David’s original angiogram had shown several major coronary blockages and lesions. It soon becomes clear that his actual situation is more serious than the pictures showed. In semi-disbelief, Nick says:

“This is a blocked left main distal trifurcation with double chronic total occlusions in the Left Anterior Descending and right coronary arteries. It doesn’t get any worse than this.”

This is like pushing David in a wheelbarrow on a wire across Niagara Falls. Without a safety net. There is no back up, no Arrest Team, no cardiac physiologist, no registrar and no specialist hospital attached. Nick said afterwards that a savage tiger was screaming inside his head:

“This is total insanity. What are you doing performing this operation in these conditions?”

snarling-tiger

The only response he could think of was:

“What else am I supposed to do, Tiger?”

His face gave away none of his misgivings. Despite being on his feet for four hours, at no time was there even a hint of anything apart from confident control.

We were watching a surgeon at the peak of his powers performing far outside conventional parameters. Climbing Everest without oxygen; flying a fast jet at Mach 2 with only a compass and a paper map; climbing Dawn Wall the 3,000-foot vertical granite sheet on El Capitan using only your bare hands.

dawn-wall-free

Take your choice of metaphor, my friend. They all work.

David is awake for the entire angioplasty procedure and, as he begins to feel the stress of lying totally still on his back for three hours in what he fully knows is a battle between life and death, Nick needs to keep him calm. He begins to sing. Guide me O thou Great Jehovah. Appropriate as he probes and feels his way using just a wire that feeds into David’s right wrist up his arm and down into the left side of his heart. Get it right, and he clears the blocked arteries. One wrong move and he perforates. If that happens, David will arrest and it will all be over. Right there and then in the middle of the hymn.

Imperceptibly, achingly slowly, the wire moves forward, micro-millimetre by micro-millimetre. We see it all on a small screen. Suddenly, the pulsating grey canvas fills with an intricate myriad of pulsing lines. Blood vessels! As the occlusion is destroyed by Nick’s wire, for the first time in a long time, the arteries and veins fill with blood and the front wall of David’s heart starts to work the way it is supposed to.

Half an hour into the operation, there is a problem. He is taking on a Chronic Total Occlusion – which is the stuff of nightmares. He attempts to insert a very small balloon but it fails to pierce the blockage. In a full-blown cardio-thoracic operating theatre, he would switch to a Turnpike catheter but he doesn’t have one. He has no options. Or, maybe one. He tries another slightly bigger balloon – which he doesn’t expect to work. If the small balloon doesn’t do it, a slightly bigger one, albeit different, is unlikely to. But it’s all he has.

It works! The CTO clears and the screen fills with the now familiar myriad of fine blood vessels. Hallelujah! I remind myself of those timeless powerful words in Psalm 23:

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

I realise I have stopped breathing; my chest hurts, and I have to force myself to suck in air. I have never seen anything that comes close to this for sheer insane bravery on behalf of surgeon and patient. For almost four hours, Nick has operated without making any mistakes. That was his mission and he delivered. I am close to tears. So is everyone.

17:50

After four hours, exhausted, but triumphant, Nick looks straight at us through the pane of glass that separates us and him, and mouths:

I’m done! We just repaired a blocked left main distal trifurcation with chronic total occlusions on the right. In a mobile cath lab. Without any APTT for crying out loud!

Get the tea and biscuits!

52a7f074697ab0071900b445._w.540_s.fit_

As he changes out of his scrubs, I ask Nick what APTT is. Oh, he says, that’s what tells you whether the patient’s blood is coagulating. You really need to know. We didn’t have any, so I had to guess.

18:00

Everyone is ecstatic. David made it!

Everyone Post Op

 

18:30

David is out of the cath lab; the waiting ambulance takes him back to the ICU at Thirty Seven. He can go home in 24 hours and begin to get his life back.

Starting here

WhatsApp-Image-20160607 (2)

Back home – 5 pm Tuesday 7 June 2016

 

Nick and Miles

No words


To David: You are the coolest guy on the planet. I am in awe at your calmness and faith as you faced the storm.

To Pamela: Your support for David and your family during this crisis has been incredible to behold. I love your kids. They are fantastic!

To Professor Nick Ossei-Gerning: You are a total legend, my brother. I am so proud of what you did. Thank you.

To Dr Enoch Anaglate: You opened up your cath lab on Sunday afternoon(!) and unhesitatingly got involved. It could not have happened without you.

To the UK Home Office: David applied to you on compassionate grounds for emergency life-saving medical treatment and you turned him down flat with no right of appeal! You had plenty of information, including letters from heart specialists, from which to corroborate his humble request and you know it. All you had to do was call me or the heart surgeons and you chose not to. You decided he was probably a rogue. The unavoidable message is that your Working Assumption is that every application coming out of West Africa is bogus. That everyone is guilty until proven innocent. That’s not fair. The United Kingdom is better than that. Please think about it and then change how you think.

To anyone who hears David’s story and wants to make a difference: There are thousands of people whose lives would be saved if they had access to basic cardiovascular diagnostics and interventional treatment. It doesn’t have to be “the way it is”. Nick and I and all the doctors in Ghana would love to see a fully specced up world class, cardio-thoracic centre that is affordable and widely available. Are you an interventional cardiologist? Do you want to give a small amount of your time to train local doctors and to carry out life-saving angioplasty once or twice a year? Or do you have financial resources you would like to use to change the world? Or do you have any great ideas to help make it happen?

Tell Nick and me and let’s make that change.

It always seems impossible. Until it’s done!

– Nelson Mandela

Read The Next Chapter

Get involved to make a change!

260 comment on “They Always Say It’s Impossible. Until It’s Done.

  • F. S. Nettey
    June 8, 2016 | 7:31 pm

    God bless you.

    • Pearl
      June 9, 2016 | 3:42 pm

      Yes the British Visa section again…no compassion..5 years ago when my sister lay dieing. ..my 81 year old mother applied for a visa to travel with her helper. The doctors in the UK wrote to the visa section saying my sister had days to live and when she was conscious was asking for my mother. The visa was refused and my mother under such stress of knowing she was loosing her daughter, travelled alone. Within 36 hours of arriving my sister died.
      Anyway…whatever the situation God is God..never will He fail..

      • Gifty Amoah
        June 9, 2016 | 4:19 pm

        It is unfortunate, visa is given to people who carry drugs and others who just need to go for fun, vacation, but not to someone who dire need his life. But British Embassy is not God, when God has ordained for you to live, whatever the situation you will live and not die. We thank the people who did everything to save a life. God richly bless you

        • Aferibea
          June 13, 2016 | 6:29 am

          Gifty you bet…when God says yes absolutely no one else can say no. God richly bless the team. Will like to contribute whenever they are ready to roll. My mother died out of ignorance and wrong diagnosis.

    • Isaac Quist
      June 11, 2016 | 1:38 am

      God richly bless you too!!! Very best regards to David Okai! How can I be of help in this mission of much needed change?

  • Poku dee
    June 8, 2016 | 8:50 pm

    Dear home office. You can really be wicked …this is criminal

  • nana poku
    June 8, 2016 | 8:55 pm

    Cold hearted treatment from the home office that could have resulted in the loss of a precious life ..How many professionals worth their salt would do that ?

  • Martyn
    June 8, 2016 | 9:05 pm

    Bureaucracy kills! Especially as practiced by its British inventors. But truth is Grace is always sufficient. True friends can move mountains. Love God; Love your neighbour

  • Samuel Asante
    June 8, 2016 | 11:34 pm

    Incredible story! Well scripted, pointing out some deficiencies in our systems that need to be fixed, and our general respect for protocol over human life. God bless Drs. Ossei Gerning, and Anaglate, Dawid, and all parties involved for the life saving work done. Wish you a speedy recovery, David, and I hope the UK Home Office gets to read your story. Thanks, Dawid, for making the story see the light of day.

    • Vivian Nuhu
      June 9, 2016 | 11:23 pm

      In deed God is truly the giver of life, turning humanly impossible situation into success. Really inspired by Dr Osei-Gerning for selflessness & bravo to all who contributed in no small way to putting back smiles on a family that otherwise will be mourning.
      I shudder to ask what could be done for others who may not have the opportunity of

  • Kurankyi
    June 9, 2016 | 2:54 am

    Well done Dawid! Let’s hope there soon comes a day where conditions in both Ghana and England mean such drama is not required.

  • big Ish
    June 9, 2016 | 3:21 am

    Wow……this almost brought me to tears…..wow! To God be the Glory. David, Dawid, Pam, Nick, Enoch…..your compassion is beyond measure…..blessings!

  • Ohemaa
    June 9, 2016 | 6:05 am

    God richly bless you Nick,humanity needs more of such people,so selfless

  • Susan
    June 9, 2016 | 6:30 am

    I am speechless! God bless you all! The message I’ve gotten from all this………there can be miracles…….if we believe! To God be the Glory!

  • Henrietta Grunitzky
    June 9, 2016 | 7:06 am

    Bravo! to all of you humane human beings, lovers of life and of others! A reminder of what real love in action can do – individually and collectively. Thank you for restoring faith in human kind. I’m sure God’s heart felt warm because mine certainly does. Thank you. God bless you!

  • Ijeoma M
    June 9, 2016 | 7:32 am

    This is such an amazing and inspirational story. God bless you for sharing.

  • Prince ACKUAKU
    June 9, 2016 | 7:48 am

    God is Good all the time. Congratulations to Nick, Dawid, Enoch, Pamela,Pastors and all who pulled this miracle through. The world still abounds with good people like you. I hope all of us in our small way can help save a life. God bless you all.

  • Oboshie koko
    June 9, 2016 | 7:56 am

    Wow! Incredible!

  • Jonathan adjetey
    June 9, 2016 | 8:10 am

    God Bless you all, I am so moved, count on my support

  • Nana Brefo Ababio
    June 9, 2016 | 8:12 am

    Nick God Bless you

  • ken Acquah
    June 9, 2016 | 8:16 am

    Impossible is nothing! All I can say at the moment.

  • SABATO kwabena
    June 9, 2016 | 8:28 am

    Brilliant
    God richly bless you ALL

  • Joe
    June 9, 2016 | 8:31 am

    The tenacity of all involved to seek for solution and not just fold their arms at the least challenge is amazing. Bureaucrat indeed kills.
    God richly bless all
    Involved in saving a human life.

    • Annette
      June 9, 2016 | 9:37 pm

      Waw! This is a move of God’s hand. Thanks to God and all those who avail themselves. God richly bless you. And I wish David a speedy recovery.

  • Erick Houadjeto (Kiki)
    June 9, 2016 | 8:36 am

    I am very emotional and close to tears. I know this family very well and had no inkling that they were going through such trauma.
    May the Good Lord bless Nick and everyone involved in this “miraculous” operation and for its success.
    May this story touch the hearts of all those in positions of authority.
    In all this… to God be the glory for great things he has done. Amen

  • Josef
    June 9, 2016 | 8:41 am

    An amazing story!

  • Abla Masoperh
    June 9, 2016 | 8:51 am

    Wow,praise God for this great miracle and for all the ‘angels’ He used.May they not miss their reward !!! Blessings unto you,always.

  • Alice Naa Lamiley P-Lamptey
    June 9, 2016 | 9:12 am

    Praise God for his divine intervention. Thank God for saving David. GOD bless Nick, Dawid, Dr. Anaglate and all those who helped. Your reward is in heaven and here on earth.

  • Joyce
    June 9, 2016 | 9:20 am

    God bless you

  • Ian
    June 9, 2016 | 9:24 am

    Most of us don’t have a skill we can bring to bear but many of us can spare some money to help build the centre Ghana badly needs.I’ll pledge £1,000 to any foundation or charity you choose, Dawid.

    • Dawid Konotey-Ahulu
      June 9, 2016 | 10:42 am

      Oh wow! Thank you Ian. I will be in touch for sure!

      • Nana Dadzie Ghansah
        June 9, 2016 | 12:49 pm

        Hi Dawid, my name is Nana Dadzie Ghansah and I am a cardiac anesthesiologist in the US.
        Kudos to you and Dr Osei-Gerning for what you did. As a physician who takes care of patients having heart surgery daily, I really appreciate the enormity of what Dr Osei-Gerning did.
        I have been interested in cardiovascular care in the Ghana for a while. There is actually the National Cardiothoracic Center at Korle-Bu. The center was established through the sweat of one man – Dr Frimpong-Boateng – who got canned a few years ago for political reasons.
        The center is getting a new cardiac cauterization suite that is taking over a year to install. That might explain why it was unavailable.
        The center is worth supporting because it has very dedlicated men and women doing the very best with very little. They are providing cardiothoracic services to infants, children and adults. The have a fully-functional ICU staffed around the clock by 2 intensivists. I would start my efforts there.
        Dedicated as they are, they are not immune to the scourge that is Ghanaian leadership and that, not dedication, is what ultimately undermines most of what they can and want to do.
        I can get you in touch with one of the surgeons.
        Below is the link to a piece I wrote about the center a few years ago:
        http://www.ghansahpages.com/?p=147

        • Jacqui
          June 9, 2016 | 8:44 pm

          We thank God for his mercies and the successful surgery and the great effort of humanity shown Nick and the team to support David in his hour of great need ..
          I agree with Nana that Working to expand the facilities at the Cardio Thoracic centre is the best way forward .. As the chair woman of the children’s heart foundation Ghana we have had to date 65 children between the age of 1 yr to 18 years successfully undergone open heart surgery at the cardio centre .. Dr Serebore and his team are diligent and is one of the few public hospital that is run efficiently with the facility that they have ..
          We would join you in any fundraising activity to expand the facility at cardio ..

          • Saint Claire Adotey
            June 11, 2016 | 10:24 am

            Wooow!!! I’m speechless.
            May God bless you all. I will ask for Holy Mass ( thanksgiving )for all of you most especially total healing for David.
            We’re blessed with angels on this earth.

        • Kofi Awuku
          June 9, 2016 | 9:49 pm

          Thanks, Nana Dadzie. I couldn’t help wondering where the famous Cardio Centre at Korle-bu fit in all this! I sincerely think it would be a good place to start too.m
          God bless Dawid, the good Dr, Anaglate, David, his family, and everyone involved in this amazing incident.

        • Theodora fynn
          June 11, 2016 | 8:47 pm

          Can you join the ghana physicians and surgeons foundation here in the USA if u r not a member? We are mobilizing to go on a volunteer health trip

      • Patrina
        June 9, 2016 | 1:18 pm

        Good job and definitely well done to you all. God bless you all abundantly for job well done. Gods strength is perfect. Will do anything to help.

  • Veronica Boye
    June 9, 2016 | 9:35 am

    Welldone, the obstacles were glaring but you did not give up . This story however almost made my blood pressure go up. Lol.

  • Ken Agra
    June 9, 2016 | 9:37 am

    Dawid, may The Almighty continue to bless you and open doors for you. I am so touched.

  • Dr Susu Bridget Kwawukume
    June 9, 2016 | 9:40 am

    Never accept no for an answer
    Get out of the box!!!!!!

    • Richard Tetteh
      June 9, 2016 | 5:34 pm

      JESUS needs to reveal Himself to all of us, including the British Home Office.

  • Ohene Ako
    June 9, 2016 | 9:43 am

    Proud to be Ghanian.This story wasn’t just about the brains but the heart as well.No pun intended

  • Benjamin Crawley
    June 9, 2016 | 9:47 am

    What an amazing story and a true friendship. God bless you all.i hope and pray this story get to the right authorities for a lesson learned.

  • Freda
    June 9, 2016 | 9:50 am

    All things are possible to them that believeth….Nick, David, Dawid, Pamela, Dr. Anaglate and all involved in this miraculous surgery; Blessings unlimited. You have really demonstrated the heart of the FATHER. God richly bless you all

  • Sylvanus Tettey Tamaklo
    June 9, 2016 | 10:15 am

    Perseverance is the word. To God be the glory. I am in

  • Alex Owoo
    June 9, 2016 | 10:16 am

    This is awesome. God surely moves in mysterious ways and performs his miracles through good people Nick and Dawid (an invaluable selfless true friend). To these two people, saving the life of David was of topmost priority and nothing mattered. God bless!

  • penny
    June 9, 2016 | 10:22 am

    The Home Office should stop thinking all Africans are as hungry as they presumed. They have simply call the hospital and the doctors involved. A life could have been lost. God richly bless all those who got involved to save David. To our governments across Africa, use our resources to fix our nations so that your citizens wouldn’t have to go through these stress.

  • penny
    June 9, 2016 | 10:29 am

    How wicked can the Home Office be. All they needed to do was consult the hospital and doctors involved. These Embassies and commissions should stop thinking we Africans are hungry and poor or want to live in their countries. To all governments across Africa, please use our resources to fix our countries to present your citizens going through these stresses. Imagine the hundreds like David out there who did not have the benefit of the *Nicks* of the world. To Nick, Dr . Anaglate and all those who played a role in saving David, God richly bless you all.

  • Aboagyewaa
    June 9, 2016 | 10:46 am

    God bless you dearly. And to Nick; you did great, bless you. The bureaucracy in some of these institutions are very appalling.

  • NanaHemaa A.
    June 9, 2016 | 10:54 am

    Wow!! Bravo you allll. God bless.

    • H. J. Nettey
      June 10, 2016 | 11:15 am

      This is classic exbition of the Grace of God working through his available agents.

  • Felix (Tae) Duku
    June 9, 2016 | 10:58 am

    Huh? David…. OMG. Hearfelt thanks to all of you brave and kind souls. God bless you all for not giving up and proving to us that indeed we can raise the bar. Big hugs David!!! I’m just weak with emotions…

  • Roland
    June 9, 2016 | 11:11 am

    Incredible…still don’t believe it happened in real life. God bless people like you, for your tenacity, enduring spirit and challenging the status quo.
    God bless your team…i need to read this again and share!

  • Kofi
    June 9, 2016 | 11:13 am

    God richly bless you, Nick, Dawid, Anaglate and Pamela.
    When you say a prayer, kindly say one for the home office and African government in general.
    People matter!
    Life matter!

  • Ivan Power
    June 9, 2016 | 11:26 am

    What an inspiring story, from a special person. Thanks for making my evening with this wonderful tale.

  • Francis Prince Ankrah
    June 9, 2016 | 11:35 am

    Wow. Awesome. God richly bless you all.

  • Dr E. Agbedinu
    June 9, 2016 | 11:41 am

    Handiwork of God, bravo to all the people involved. God bless you all for allowing yourselves to be used to save a life. God is still in the miracle business indeed

  • Eben
    June 9, 2016 | 11:43 am

    Thank you for not giving up at the first sign of a challenge. Well done!

  • Victoria
    June 9, 2016 | 12:01 pm

    Wow! Still holding my breath. God bless you all

  • Prisca Sefakor
    June 9, 2016 | 12:02 pm

    wow..God continue to bless you all for this amazing work..God himself will reward you’ll..

  • Dr Albert Amankwaa
    June 9, 2016 | 12:04 pm

    This shows that we Africans have to build our institutions and infrastructure to help our people because we can’t rely on other countries, they simply don’t care if one more black dies! To our leaders – please stop stealing our money or if you do which I know you always do, please invest in our own countries so that our people can benefit. Well done guys for saving a life. To other professionals – please bring home your knowledge and some of your acquired wealth to help our folks. They need your help.

    • Theodora fynn
      June 9, 2016 | 2:08 pm

      Dr Amankwa the opposition is insane when we try to come back the football association got it right using the outside footballers trained in good clubs but with healthcare we got it all wrong and what’s more we want to come for freeeeeeeeee

  • Yvonne
    June 9, 2016 | 12:05 pm

    Bless you Dawid and You were there for a reason. Knew MICHAEL and know David Nick Enoch and all. I’m so glad he’s fine and back with Pamela and family

  • Sally Mercer Quagraine
    June 9, 2016 | 12:15 pm

    So profound, didn’t believe what I was reading till I started seeing names and pics of people I know. Covered in goosebumps right now! Indeed God is great! Together we can achieve so much. Heaven help us all.

  • Rina Placca
    June 9, 2016 | 12:20 pm

    This is really touching. There is a special place reserved in heaven for you all. Be blessed always.

  • Esi Hammond
    June 9, 2016 | 12:23 pm

    I spoke to Nick on Sunday evening and he was getting ready to catch his flight back to the UK. He said he came to town for one day and it was therefore one of those times when we wouldn’t be able to meet to reminisce about growing up in Takoradi in the Western Region of Ghana. Nick was my classmate and absolutely intelligent. A Christian too. Today, I stand in awe at this feat and thank God for the likes of Nick. I thank God for this family sharing such a great testimony. May God continue to touch the hearts of those who look down on us and are ever so ready to deprive us of help. The world would be so much happier if privileged people would be just a little kind and trusting of those of us not so privileged. God sees and answers prayers and He did big time in this situation. May His name be forever praised.

  • Lawson Jet
    June 9, 2016 | 12:28 pm

    when I started reading i was thinking this is one of the stories we just read but it ended up real.
    Dawid and all who played roles in this will be rewarded by our maker.
    God bless you all

  • Effie
    June 9, 2016 | 12:29 pm

    GOD is GOOD ALL THE TIME! Dawid, you brought me to tears with your sense of humour even in such awe-inspiring story that only heroes like David, Nick, Pam and the family, and you are made of. It’s refreshing to know humanity trumps everything else. God bless you for sharing.

  • David Vanderpuye-Orgle
    June 9, 2016 | 12:29 pm

    I’m speechless but the little I can say is indeed “all things are possible to him who believes”.
    This story could pass for a good documentary. Kudos to all who did their best in this life and death drama. To God be the Glory.

  • Lawson Jet
    June 9, 2016 | 12:30 pm

    God bless you all. Indeed we still have people who care out there. As for the home office the least said about them the better.
    They will also be rewarded accordingly
    Dawid and the team big ups and more blessings

  • Kobby
    June 9, 2016 | 12:38 pm

    Just GRIT, your profile says it all! Always good to read a happy ending story.

  • Kwasi Abeasi
    June 9, 2016 | 12:40 pm

    I could not help crying as I read the story. Shame on the British high commission officials. They are always insulting in their attitude to visa application from our people. One of them had to be quickly sent back for a similar behaviour to avoid embarrassment. Thank you all of you who helped expecially the doctors. I am ready to be part of the change group in which ever way I can.Truly God is great and works in mysterious ways.

  • Kobby
    June 9, 2016 | 12:50 pm

    On the Home Office, it appears to be the norm…

    check this…http://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/pa/article-3622574/Home-Office-urged-allow-cancer-sufferers-brother-UK-stem-cell-op.html

  • Effuah
    June 9, 2016 | 12:51 pm

    Amazing! Bless your hearts, y’all angels who intervened to save David’s life. May you be twice, no many folds blessed.

    • Rosa
      June 9, 2016 | 10:20 pm

      What an amazing story. All glory be to God. Good friends are hard to come by. Dawid, Nick , Anaglatey, God bless you all.

  • Nana Yaw Cantey
    June 9, 2016 | 12:59 pm

    Dawid, could a film possibly be made of this. It would get a wider reach and possibly move people quicker to make funds available for the cardio-thoracic centre. Awesome story!! You already created the synopsis. It shows the world hasn’t given up on God and His awesome power. God bless all of you!!

    • Janet Wentum
      June 10, 2016 | 3:42 am

      An awesome idea. David. A film that can be sold will help raise the money that is needed.

      • Theodora fynn
        June 11, 2016 | 9:01 pm

        I support that idea

      • Natalie Wayne Collison
        June 14, 2016 | 10:58 pm

        Brilliant idea

  • Ato Ashun
    June 9, 2016 | 1:04 pm

    Amazing, amazing, amazing!!!
    We worship a true and a living God! Yea, that’s why we call Him(God), Jehova Jireh is His name.
    God is indeed our provider, Oh yes, He is our deliverer, our fortress,protector, shield, conqueror,a refuge in times of trouble, a strong tower against our enemies, our rock of salvation ………………..l can go on and on and on with immeasurable attributes.
    Great work from an awesome team saints who made this work.
    Nick, Dawid, Dr Angelate, Pamela, all the pastors who fervently prayed for David, l say God richly bless you.

  • Benny Daisy
    June 9, 2016 | 1:24 pm

    God bless you dawid
    God is faithful…..

  • kwame Danso
    June 9, 2016 | 1:24 pm

    You guys did a great job pushing it through for success. God richly bless all for supporting a worthy course.
    And to home office shame on you guys. human lives are more precious than what they do there called work. You think every black man is a beggar? Rethink

  • kafui addy anakwa
    June 9, 2016 | 1:26 pm

    …against all odds, faith and hope stood tall. God bless all of you for allowing God to use you as vessels of his honour. To God be the glory, great things he has done, great things he will do.

  • Eric Saka Boateng
    June 9, 2016 | 1:38 pm

    How wicked can the home office be! God bless the team that helped save his life.

  • Effah
    June 9, 2016 | 1:43 pm

    Amazing Grace, God Bless you all. But Home Office????????.

  • Kwame Eric Obeng Bempong
    June 9, 2016 | 1:52 pm

    Very touching God is good this spirit is what a human being should envy and nothing else. May The Good Lord bless all parties involved but for the home office l pray for them to respect Ghanaians Britain owes Ghana

  • Making Ghana Work Again | Comfort Ocran’s Blog
    June 9, 2016 | 2:02 pm

    […] https://www.dawid.com/medicine/they-always-say-its-impossible-until-its-done/ […]

  • Theodora fynn
    June 9, 2016 | 2:04 pm

    My name is Panyin and I am a doc here in the USA , I am part of the ghana physicians and surgeons foundation here in the US, we are trying to go to ghana as volunteer docs anywhere GHS would hav as go with the expertise and more you have alluded to and I believe one day we will get there. In the process ,we are at the stage where you had to deal with the embassy just an analogy.in the future there is an interventional cardiologist Dr kamar Adeleke an interventional cardiologist here in the us who has set up a Catalab in Nigeria univ of Nigeria and does them together with a thoracic surgeon back up. God have mercy we hav to demand good health care in ghana and God bless those docs back home and all they do with minimal resources.

  • Kojo
    June 9, 2016 | 2:05 pm

    To God be the glory.
    I have always understood that the Cardio-thoracic centre at Korle-bu is 1st class. I have also heard stories of senior West-African politicians who have come to Ghana for life saving operations. Could this not have been handled there?

  • ABCee
    June 9, 2016 | 2:21 pm

    W-O-W!!!
    Where shall we send our donations for the creation of this center? If we work at enabling ourselves we wont be needing any visas for treatment.

  • Kofi
    June 9, 2016 | 2:35 pm

    Only one functioning Cath Lab in Accra and yet we have Deputy Ministers riding around in V8 vehicles worth over $100,000 and when you talk they say you should shut up. Sometimes I wonder what is wrong with us as a people. A million thank you to all the docs involved. As for the home office, I got no words for them.

    • Claudia
      June 10, 2016 | 3:16 pm

      When God opens a door, NO MAN can shut. We thank you Father. Amen.

  • King Sam
    June 9, 2016 | 2:38 pm

    WOW… David speedy recovery to you…. Dawid,Nick,Enoch and all the miracle workers!!!! I have no words!!!!! Thank You for being the people you are.. God richly Bless you all……

  • PKO
    June 9, 2016 | 2:43 pm

    DAWID, you are the main hero of the story. The way you underplay your critical role in the entire saga is a humbling experience for me. A friend like you is one in a million. Yes God performed a miracle but it was through you. Thank you, God bless you always

    • Vince
      June 11, 2016 | 2:58 pm

      My sentiments indeed! Dawid, you truly rock. You must be that tenacious to pull this off. God bless all.

  • Aga
    June 9, 2016 | 2:45 pm

    I do sincerely hope Ghana will one day have its own medical resources (cardiac and dialysis centers etc) to match the skills of the talented local medical personnel. That will keep people from dying needlessly or having to fly out at great financial and emotional cost to seek treatment elsewhere and be treated so shabbily by other countries. This is something we abroad have been trying to help make a reality. The bureaucracy can be frustrating but I pray it happens sooner rather than later. An amazing story and a tribute to faith, family and friends and the skill and determination of the doctors.

  • Prof Afua Hesse
    June 9, 2016 | 2:46 pm

    Awesome but then problems are solutions waiting to be found I say.
    Thank you Home office. If you had not refused the visa, the docs would not have looked at alternative appropriate technology. This is wirth writing up. Kudos to all and thank you God for caring human beings such as this! I support you!

  • D. Bertha Ayi
    June 9, 2016 | 2:48 pm

    Dawid,
    Thank you. I am in tears right now. All week I have been working on the framework that will allow me to engage partners, market women, Ghanaian ppopulace, diaspora anyone at all to build a state-of-the-art hospital by the people for the people. It is a big great but it can be done. This is an amazing story, but we have to change the future stories. It should be that he went to so and so facility and got immediate help.
    Your story convinced me that my big hairy audacious dream is possible. And that it needs to done in this generation. So as a nation we can fid help. Thank you for being awesome to do what you did and the boldness to share it.

  • Petrina
    June 9, 2016 | 2:51 pm

    God bless the doctors and all people involved to save the life. This would not have been possible without the Lord. This story reminds us to always trust and depend on the Lord for He makes things beautiful in His time. Bravo to the team!!!

  • Maxwell E Acquah
    June 9, 2016 | 2:56 pm

    What! action do we need to take? I am appealing to all the Doctors involved to think of establishing facilities in all the regions in Ghana, “One region at a time”. One day, people in UK will apply to come to Ghana for treatment. Thanks to all involved. Let’s look ahead.

  • Kobby Optson
    June 9, 2016 | 3:03 pm

    Make into a film. The world must hear and be inspired by this miracle. Wonderful!

  • Gloria Bempong
    June 9, 2016 | 3:07 pm

    What a touching story; I am so moved to tears! ! Our God of miracles is still at work!! God bless all who showed love!!!
    We need Nick and Dawid’s kind a zillion fold in our world
    Pls come home with your expertise and let’s make Ghana together!!!

  • Romeo Bugyei
    June 9, 2016 | 3:15 pm

    Thank you all for allowing yourselves to be used by God. Very touching story. God bless you

  • Sam
    June 9, 2016 | 3:20 pm

    O my God, O my God.
    Help my unbelief!
    The Lord bless you all richly.
    If you need any Design interventions let me know.

  • Godwin Dosu
    June 9, 2016 | 3:21 pm

    Really inspirational stuff. Got me completely hooked on. Missed my train stop. God bless you.

  • Kojo Brobbey
    June 9, 2016 | 3:21 pm

    Well done Dawid was reading out of interest and towards the end realised who it was. Sent shivers down my spine. I know David, Charles and the family well. God is good.

  • Yaw Owusu Addo (Avo)
    June 9, 2016 | 3:21 pm

    Dawid,
    This is so touching- been on my mind all day. I know David very well & am so glad things worked out. The Mighty Hand of God was definitely at work here. God Bless you and Nick & the other doctor for what you did. I hope that person at the Home Office gets to read your blog & bows his head in shame. As for the British Airways folks they only proved beyond doubt that they can be replaced by computers; infact modern day computers could have made a better judgment on the situation.

  • florence
    June 9, 2016 | 3:26 pm

    God bless you a good friend is hard to find.

  • Jan
    June 9, 2016 | 3:43 pm

    Wow! Simply amazing! Miracles do happen. Kudos to Prof Gerning and the entire team. The least said about the British High Commission, the better…

  • Serwah Owusu
    June 9, 2016 | 3:48 pm

    So inspiring. Compassion moves mountains and crosses oceans. Thank you for sharing this amazing story of courage, perseverance, service and love. Please, contact us to be involved in any fund raising events to bring about purpose built cardiovascular facility in our motherland.
    God richly bless you.

    • Exonam
      June 11, 2016 | 3:28 pm

      To God be the glory! This story moved me to tears. Thank you Dawid, Nick, Dr. Anaglate, Pamela and everybody else for allowing God to use you to restore David to life. God bless you beyond your wildest expectations.

  • Korbla
    June 9, 2016 | 3:52 pm

    Thank God

  • Dr. Amma Ekem
    June 9, 2016 | 3:53 pm

    God bless you Dawid and Nick and all those involved! Really inspiring. I was touched reading this. Very glad David is doing well.

  • Ama O
    June 9, 2016 | 4:10 pm

    This is such an amazing story.You helped your friend surmount the obstacles in his way and amazingly he survived.

  • Vivien B
    June 9, 2016 | 4:24 pm

    Kudos to you all. God bless you. I cried as I read this story. Dr. Konotey Ahulu please find a movie producer right away. It should definitely be made into a movie. So many lessons from this. This crazy bureaucratic processes must come to an end!

  • isaac
    June 9, 2016 | 4:43 pm

    I will never blame home office…blame it on us…we fail to train our people and ensure the right conditions and equipments…because all our leaders know is to travel out for treatment,now the new trend is India…meanwhile we were all ruled by the British,the average Indian and Ghanaian are at par in intelligence,the difference is that they make it work,we don’t ,we talk,.. A nation of talkers, and hypocrites…. U just check out the floods in Accra… Pathetic…all our education is being renders useless by our politicians with our able support… For Christ sake we pay the home office with our hard earned money,and they take it and shamelessly refuse us cos they know our leaders don’t bite,can’t decipher ,and can’t be respected how much more the common black Ghanaian.

  • isaac
    June 9, 2016 | 4:51 pm

    Glad to know the intervention was done by a Ghanaian… And the one who put it all together,I really like your spirit you just can’t accept no and am aspiring to that…wheew what an adrenaline expedition… I cry for a mind revolution in Ghana

  • Francis Jarvis T
    June 9, 2016 | 5:20 pm

    Our GOD leaves and reigns.

    I thank GOD almighty David made it. Thank you Dr. Nick for serve to humanity. Thank you Dawid for initiating all this. And thank you Dr. Anaglate. GOD richly bless you all.

    It’s time our leaders made this country a place we can all have faith and leave in and stop making only ”those who belong to them” comfortable. What if Dawid didn’t have the foresight to initiate this? What if they did come out of all the obstacles? What if, What if, What if……………and what if? David would have been gone. Do we always have to run out of this country to seek medical attention else where, educate ourselves etc., etc., Even for something as critical as a HEART CONDITION, our dear brother like many before him, and many to come after him was denied the means to have life. But GOD has given it to him abundantly. Please make conditions in this country one we can be proud of. Equip our hospitals and STOP the waste. GOD CONTINUE TO SAVE MY MOTHERLAND

  • Winnie Mills-Amui
    June 9, 2016 | 5:26 pm

    God is great!

  • freda dodd-glover
    June 9, 2016 | 5:54 pm

    Cheers Dawid and Team! Dr Nick.. hi five!

  • Nana Hemaa
    June 9, 2016 | 5:59 pm

    God bless your heart Dawid for not giving up!! An unconditional show of love. A true friend, who can find! Thanks to Nick, Dr Anaglate and everybody else who made this possible. Truly an inspiring story….

  • Felix Mensah
    June 9, 2016 | 6:03 pm

    My God I thought I was reading a fictional oratory until the pictures showed up.

    If all should have such commitment and determination against all odds our country will be …..
    Many thanks guys and God bless you

  • Ewurekua Wilberforce
    June 9, 2016 | 6:19 pm

    Amazing story, indeed God is Awesome…with Him nothing is impossible! God bless you all for this inspiring story: Dawid, Professor Ossei-Gerning, Dr Anaglate, David, Pamela…it took some tenacious faith but thank God indeed for this testimony! I’ m truly humbled by how you went out of your way to save a life.
    It’s also a reminder that we need to organise ourselves as a country…obviously we have the brains (and the heart) but we need a lot more –  hospitals, equipment, medication, etc to save lives.
    I’m ready to support in any capacity to change healthcare in Ghana for the better

  • Ben Quarcoo
    June 9, 2016 | 6:24 pm

    Amazing act of compassion and kindness! What a great example to follow.
    Thank you & God bless Nick and Dawid

  • Rebecca
    June 9, 2016 | 6:26 pm

    Best love story ever!

  • Naa O Quartey
    June 9, 2016 | 6:28 pm

    I want to thank the entire team of specialists for the wonderful work they availed themselves to be used for. They didn’t consider the financial aspect of it but rather they did it for humanity according to their oath taken to save a life. The reward of such a great act of professionalism is enormous. You have saved the life of
    not only one person but that of an entire family, I say God bless you abundantly.

    The Home Office
    This is my message to you, when in doubt ask for advise from a professional and do not judge using “ticking boxes”, not everyone applying for a visa to your country is needy, unfortunately people will always want to get the best treatment to have a better quality of life. I plead therefore that you should always seek advise from medical professionals in assessing situations as this. There are many genuine people in Africa.

  • Gifty Ama Esaah Amoah
    June 9, 2016 | 7:06 pm

    We thank God for a prompt answer. All things are possible to Him and sometimes He knows what He is doing.

  • Kwesi
    June 9, 2016 | 7:45 pm

    Well done team!!!
    In awe of what was achieved under the circumstance.
    It’s about time “we” the citizenry fight for our right to good health, education, transportation, security, etc.
    Least I forget (For the physicians reading this), don’t ask about MDC certification for the LEAD PHYSICIAN..

  • Dr Maalug
    June 9, 2016 | 8:00 pm

    Amazing story. God bless all.

  • Gideon Arkoh Gagbah
    June 9, 2016 | 8:01 pm

    I am even speechless. God Bless you all and continue to be a blessing to society.

  • Kofi Blankson
    June 9, 2016 | 8:50 pm

    To God be the glory. The attitude of the home office is, to say the least, inhumane and barbaric ; reminiscent of the Stone Age and I’m appalled to realize there are Stone Age people still living on planet earth today. We are all not safe.

  • Ben Dotsei Malor
    June 9, 2016 | 8:50 pm

    Dr Osei-Gerning: GOD bless you. If you ever come to New York let me know so I can take you out to lunch and offer you a tour of the UN, please.
    Dawid: GOD bless you. Without your vivid, heart-wrenching and compelling write-up this great act of noble and inspiring sacrifice, courage and heroism would have been lost.
    My email is provided: Please let me know where – or into which account – I can make my contribution.

    I feel more motivated to do more for my fellow brother or sister – at whatever little cost. You are great and awesome examples to me. GOD bless you again and again.

  • Natasha Nyanin
    June 9, 2016 | 9:07 pm

    This is as much a story of resilience and defiance as it is one of collaboration and reliance and I find that infinitely endearing. Thank you for sharing these words and reminding us of the blessing of friendship, the power of networking, the puissance of compassion and the exhilaration of being alive.

  • Joana Erskine
    June 9, 2016 | 9:09 pm

    Inspired! I am in tears reading this because of my own experience. The healthcare system in our country does not do much for its citizens and worst when you don’t have money to pay. I still need to undergo surgery to correct complications from previous surgeries but here I lay down and pray to God that I make it a day at a time. I probably have to wait for God to send me an ‘Ian’ to operate on me. All I can say is thank you. Thank you for keeping my hope alive.

  • Edward
    June 9, 2016 | 9:12 pm

    Wonderful! I have referred a few guys (journalist) to your website. This story must be retold and if by doing so we’re able to raise funds for additional resources then so be it.

  • Yoofi
    June 9, 2016 | 9:47 pm

    Very inspiring and worth reading. thanks David,and thanks Marko for sendind.

  • Ma’ali
    June 9, 2016 | 9:50 pm

    This is a truly powerful and moving story. He is the author and perfector of our faith. It is He, who will see us through to an expected end. He is Jehovah! Elohim! El-Shaddai!
    May He be praised now and always.
    God bless all those who played a role in saving the life of David. This is absolutely riveting. Praise God!

  • Irene
    June 9, 2016 | 10:17 pm

    God bless you Dawid!! I’m a doctor in Ghana and i identify with what your friend went through. Our health system is getting worse by the day all because of bad politics and corruption. We seriously need God to make a way!!! This story moved me to tears!!! God richly bless you!

  • Ataa Kpakpo
    June 9, 2016 | 10:20 pm

    By the grace of God this has happened and we are all showering praises on the deserving heroes.
    They deserve it.
    What about Korle-bu and the other teaching hospitals, and the GHS and the overarching MOH. Let’s pray for the current leaders and those called to lead to do a grear job. They are all we have, and we must have those institutions working perfectly to further drive excellence in every health facility everywhere in Ghana.

    • Edward
      June 10, 2016 | 7:40 am

      I agree with you on this. But in almost every country in this world despite the responsibilities of the government, we still need folks to help support the entire system beyond their duties. Exactly for these reasons that students contribute to their former schools

  • Stephen Tieku MD( Von- Breaker)
    June 9, 2016 | 10:58 pm

    Professor Osei Genning you’ve made us proud,kwabotwe and Ghana!
    We need to talk! I have been looking for you!

  • Eunice Lawson
    June 9, 2016 | 11:02 pm

    Thank God,he is always there to help is when the need arises.The hymns very powerful. We are privileged to have them .thanks to all who made this happen. I pray some more of these equipments could be installed so more patients can be saved.

  • Theophilus Annan
    June 9, 2016 | 11:18 pm

    Probably this is what will help us set up such medical facility here. If we support the likes of Dr Anaglate, it can be done.

  • Fiona
    June 9, 2016 | 11:38 pm

    Brilliant, moving, inspirational, cinematic.

  • Emmanuel Agozie
    June 9, 2016 | 11:42 pm

    Wow! This is really awesome! It’s a real heart-warmer to get to know that the world still has compassionate individuals who will go all out for put the needs of others first. Nick & friends, may the Almighty Father continue to bless and enlarge you and may He cause to be a blessing to more around the globe. I doff my hat off to y’all. Way to go!
    And to David, this is a really great testimony. God has shown to us all once again how much He loves us through this ‘near impossible’ conquest.
    I thank God for the lives of all of you who made this possible. Way to go!!!

  • Johnny Bansah
    June 10, 2016 | 2:07 am

    I am screaming ‘this is stereotyping’! and I’m hoping someone would tell the British Home Office guys just that.

  • Erick Oppong
    June 10, 2016 | 2:08 am

    What a touching story .Honestly you are all heroes and God will continously bless you all.
    The home office,what else do u need?
    One day,u may be in need, greater than David’s. Work mindfully.

  • Julian
    June 10, 2016 | 2:15 am

    To Gog be the glory. Thank you Dawid, Nick and all involved for not giving up despite all the barriers faced. God bless you in all you do and will continue to shower is blessings and protection on you. God richly bless you.

  • Bridge Adams
    June 10, 2016 | 3:35 am

    I just had tears drop. My brother you did well for David. As for the embassy, well we cant say much nor blame them. People has set bad standards in the past that influences their decisions but still they should have done a lot more work to confirm the need for the visa. Not all of us want to live outside of Ghana they know. Well Nick you are the man. God bless you.

  • Kwame Boahene
    June 10, 2016 | 3:41 am

    What a triumph of humanity and compassion over very misplaced perceptions of an entire continent.God bless persistence,brilliance and the will to make a difference..I see you in there,Nii Odoi….

  • Janet Wentum
    June 10, 2016 | 3:59 am

    God bless you! Please use crowdfunding such as kickstarter or https://www.indiegogo.com to raise money for the project. I’ll support any effort. Count me in! In the meantime, I’ll share your links in my social media to raise awareness. May God richly bless you!!!

  • peter tamakloe
    June 10, 2016 | 4:06 am

    Very inspiring and touching. This is really all that matters and worth being proud of . I pledge 1000ghc to the efforts

  • Abena
    June 10, 2016 | 4:42 am

    I’m speechless!!! This is what we call friendship.. We all need to emulate and give a hand at all Times..Good job Dawid and Nick.. God really bless you. As for the home office.. hmmm..

  • J. S. K
    June 10, 2016 | 4:45 am

    To God be the Glory… Society needs selfless people to make it work. God is watching us in all we do for and against our fellow men.

  • Clement Dodoo
    June 10, 2016 | 4:45 am

    This is a very touching story. I have refused to be angry with the Home Office foe the simple reason that we cannot continue to rely on others to fulfil our destinies. We have to spend the money required to ensure we have all the equipment and most of all the right personnel in the country to handle all these cases. We have to stop the habit of jumping on flights to other places for medical treatment. It is the duty for all of us to push for this.

    I am very touched by your determination and selflessness in bringing all these angels together to save a dear life. All the people involved in this moving story will continue to receive the abundant blessings of the Almighty God.

    Please send me a personal email. I want to contribute something as i know I cost a lot to arrange all these. Also we can come together to start a campaign to raise funds for the Cardio centre at Korlebu. A lot can be done.

    Thank you

  • Nana Asorbea
    June 10, 2016 | 5:34 am

    This is awesome. Your reward for such help will only come from heaven. God bless you. You saved a life, blessed a family and showed the world a hero ( Dr Nick)

  • Jennifer Brown-Aryee
    June 10, 2016 | 5:34 am

    Amazing how Dedication to your Calling & the Courage to Face the Uncertain Battle with Limited Tools & Equipmeent can Save a Valued Life that Does Not Need to be Lost! All done & narrated in such Truthful Humility! Congrats to all Involved & Congrats too to the Narrator of this Fine Example of How Much Can be Accomplished by a Few Decent People Coming Together in Faith, Love & Unison to Make a Challenging Solution an Accomplishable Solution!
    My Respects to you all! I am Humbled by your Kindness, Focus and Determination.

  • Kuukua
    June 10, 2016 | 5:49 am

    This just brings tears to my eyes for two reasons:

    One Mother’s condition was not as complicated. It could have been solved had the doctors and nurses been more concerned, committed and open to new ideas on getting things done. It would not have been fatal.
    Two, there is hope. There is so much hope because there are good people who will stop at nothing to get things done. And to save lives.God bless you.

  • Kwadwo Koram
    June 10, 2016 | 6:37 am

    Very moving and inspiring piece. Brings up lots of issues that we need to tackle as a nation. One that comes to mind readily is the provision of good health care for the citizenry. Note the number and type of personnel Dr Ossei mentioned would be supporting him if he were doing the op in his hospital. We gladly go along with unemployed nurses while making highly skilled professionals less efficient. Congratulations to the courageous team for pulling this off. Let’s hope we learn the lessons.

  • Daniel
    June 10, 2016 | 6:42 am

    What an incredible story!! To God be the glory. David, Nick and et al, I say; you are blessed beyond measure for this labour of love you have shown David and his family.

  • Peter
    June 10, 2016 | 6:55 am

    The world is a global village as we rightly puts it but i will say this village lacks ‘compassion’ for its ‘citizens’. We got good people in this village and Uk home office is not one of them. God bless you Nick and your team, you successfully make me cry happily this morning. Nick, i love you

  • Dr Theodora Pepera
    June 10, 2016 | 6:58 am

    Truly awesome, inspiring and humbling. Well done to all who made this happen!

  • Ashirifi
    June 10, 2016 | 6:58 am

    Wow Dawid, an incredible account of determination and an entirely altruistic act. You were very central in all of this. Many lessons to be learned here for all of us. Thanks also to him that is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we think of.

    God Bless.
    With every good wish,
    Ash

  • Catherine
    June 10, 2016 | 7:09 am

    Gosh, what an incredible story. You are an amazing person for organising all of this. God bless you and God bless the surgeon. This story has brought tears to my eyes.

  • Ian Thompson
    June 10, 2016 | 7:39 am

    I have been only partly there – down to the wire getting visas to a West African country with favors called in and people cycling into central London to meet at 5 minutes to deadline with embassy officials – it really tests your patience . . . and yet that was just a small part of what you guys had to deal with. All I had to lose was a vacation and a visit to my brother – you could have lost the life of a friend. It is awe-inspiring that you had so much to deal with at every stage and won through. Thanks for not giving up on David and pulling all the rabbits out of the hat. If I ever have a life-threatening condition I know who I’m going to call 🙂

  • Richard Amanfu
    June 10, 2016 | 7:50 am

    Some friends we make/have/keep can really determine our fate.

  • kingsford
    June 10, 2016 | 7:55 am

    Praise be to God ALMIGHTY for the great thing He has done, and the “Saints” He used.
    This story proves that love is greater than law, and I pray that someting great comes out of this awsome story.
    God richly bless you all.

  • Christian I D Kpodo
    June 10, 2016 | 8:05 am

    Ģuys God richly bless you for rich lesson you shown mankind

  • Audrey Anquandah
    June 10, 2016 | 9:03 am

    Woooow speechless
    We bless God for this
    Psalm 23 any other day
    Thanks Nick, Pamela and et al

  • Joseyphina
    June 10, 2016 | 9:06 am

    Very touching. We thank God for working it out.

  • Ps.Eric Dzade
    June 10, 2016 | 9:16 am

    Never seen what is called Miracle….this is one. God doesnt come down himself. He sends angels. If you havent seen an angel before..pls look out for those heros. God we will foever be grateful. Thank you all ANGELS

  • Belinda
    June 10, 2016 | 9:26 am

    Wow, i’m in awe of what you all did. Dawid, Prof. Nick, Dr. Anaglatey, you guys are amazing human beings, I wish I knew you, or could help in any way. God bless and I pray this be an everlasting memorial for you and your descendants before God. May he also perfect David’s healing in Jesus name.

  • Daniel Daley
    June 10, 2016 | 9:44 am

    I shed tears through my entire read of this heart touching story until my head ached hard and felt pain at the lower part of my chest.
    Any advise?
    Still crying though….

  • Dela Nyamekye
    June 10, 2016 | 9:45 am

    God bless u all for ur various contributions towards the saving of David’s life, he wouldn’t have made it without you.Thanks to Dawid and Nick.

  • Yagoub Musa
    June 10, 2016 | 10:19 am

    God bless you all…great job Nick
    I’m Dr. Yagoub Musa, an interventionist from sudan, we met many times at AfricaPCR. .I’m ready to give hands

  • Tracy
    June 10, 2016 | 10:30 am

    Hmmmm.. What a touching story!!!! God bless you all for helping to save David’s life. Indeed we serve a faithful God. He alone deserve to be praised.

  • Denis
    June 10, 2016 | 10:32 am

    A friend in need is a friend indeed. God bless all the hands involved in saving a life.

  • Prixie
    June 10, 2016 | 10:43 am

    God Richly Bless you David and Nick for allowing God to use you in saving a Life.
    Let’s all be each other’s keeper and assist each other in any small way.

  • Erica Asante
    June 10, 2016 | 11:40 am

    This is truly an amazing story which proves first and foremost that God really is still in the miracle working business and does it with people who avail themselves to be used. God richly bless all the main “actors” who made this happen. You can count on my support at any time.

  • Evans
    June 10, 2016 | 12:24 pm

    Wow! What an incredible story. Just curious. Nick Ossei-Gerning looks and sounds to me like a Ghanaian name especially with his middle name Ossei. So I am wondering why the trouble in getting a visa if indeed he’s a Ghanaian. Or perhaps he’s a Ghanaian heritage but doesn’t hold dual citizenship.

    • Dawid Konotey-Ahulu
      June 10, 2016 | 10:26 pm

      Well observed. Nick’s Ghanaian passport was up for renewal but he hadn’t done it yet.

  • Naa Jem
    June 10, 2016 | 12:32 pm

    Indeed Our God moves in mysterious ways. He makes ways where there seems to be no way. God bless the medical team and you.

  • divine amuzu
    June 10, 2016 | 12:42 pm

    This is an inspiring story. Loads of lesson to learn; Never give up even if you get to a point you think it’s all gone.
    God richly bless the team for the great work done for humanity.

  • Wilma Kizzy Couston
    June 10, 2016 | 1:00 pm

    GRACE! I call this GRACE! We thank God for your life Uncle David.

  • Michael Ossei-Gerning
    June 10, 2016 | 1:11 pm

    I salute my brother Dr.Nicholas Ossei-Gerning and his team for saving the life of David. I am very pleased that the operation was successful. It’s the Lord’s intervention. The BA officials denied Nick and co.earlier with their own interpretation of life saving. Which is completely opposite what the doctors did. God bless Nick and his team. This is a moving remarkable true story of the life of someone who was so many thousands of miles away from the Nick and co.
    May the Almighty Father bless the whole team for saving that precious soul of David.

  • Ama
    June 10, 2016 | 1:20 pm

    Wow what an inspirational story! This is how miracles are made we are God’s hands and His feet. Good to know there are still people who care about more than just themselves!! God bless you abundantly for not giving up!

  • B Kofi
    June 10, 2016 | 1:30 pm

    A well written account of a resourceful and brave team that made it happen. Please as mentioned, create a foundation with credible members who have the passion to do good, and I will contribute

  • Mike Olongo
    June 10, 2016 | 1:53 pm

    I hope the Home Office will come up with a convincing rebuttal as to what prompted such a callous decision to deny life to a dying man. Congrats, Dr Gyerning and others.

  • Stephen Antwi
    June 10, 2016 | 2:35 pm

    W need to persist in all our endeavours. The doctor never gave up no matter the challenges. May God bless all those who contributed in one way or the other but change the hearts of the wicked staff of the UK home offices

  • Kofi
    June 10, 2016 | 2:53 pm

    Dear All, From all indications this is a miracle and all the various actors, we say bravo and allowing yourself to be used by God to save David.
    Let me just correct one issue. The lady in question referred as the Deputy High Commissioner is one of the Consular officials. It would interest you to note that indeed she was preparing for her birthday celebrations on the said day but as a dedicated public officer, decided to assist. We are all touched by this experience and lets celebrate all these Ghanaians. We are capable of building a wonderful nation if only we would respect each other. God Bless Ghana!!!!!!!!!!

  • Ama
    June 10, 2016 | 3:08 pm

    Incredible, inspiring, enlightening and above all, humbling. Thank you for sharing.

  • Claudia
    June 10, 2016 | 3:21 pm

    When God opens a door, No Man can shut. Father we thank You. Amen.

  • Akeel Sachak
    June 10, 2016 | 3:39 pm

    Dawid you make my tenacity look feeble. I am incredibly proud of you my friend

  • Laud Hammond
    June 10, 2016 | 3:58 pm

    Awesome God. They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength. God bless you all for the different roles you played to save a life.

  • sean uk
    June 10, 2016 | 4:01 pm

    where life hangs on , hope still has a chance.

  • Alfred
    June 10, 2016 | 4:40 pm

    3 words: God bless you!

  • JEA-Q
    June 10, 2016 | 4:56 pm

    God will foever be in his miracle business once His children are around. This incident makes David’s experience in Psalm 23 so true. Yes God’s children could be in the deepest pit and it is never beyond Him to Redeem us. Kudos all team members who availed yourselves for God’s use. May you receive His favour. All doctors shoul take a cue from this philanthropic move.

  • Emeka Nkemakolam
    June 10, 2016 | 5:02 pm

    I then ask again, what us the meaning of Commonwealth when members cannot travel to member countries visa free. Is it still worth it. Our African Leaders need to have a rethink. Decide our future. We don’t have to be members of this organization if the only use is to celebrate games and anniversary of its useless formation

  • Nii Norkuu Noye
    June 10, 2016 | 5:26 pm

    wow.Such a touching story that gives hope in the midst of crises.To God Be the Glory.Kudos to the team for doing such a marvelous job.Thanks to Dr Anaglate for making his facility availble for this operation to be done.God richly bless you all.IMPOSSIBLE IS POSSIBLE!!!

  • Rita
    June 10, 2016 | 5:43 pm

    Amazing……i ask the almighty nothing short of his unparalleled love for the team. Am touched.

  • Vicky k s rony
    June 10, 2016 | 6:11 pm

    God”s blessings are always not in material forms but as africans most we sometimes cherish these worldly things more than human lives but to you Dawid and your cooperate members God bless you all and may you never lack anything be it divinity or humanity shalom

  • Veronica Ama Jackson
    June 10, 2016 | 6:20 pm

    Amazing Story! God is good all the time and all the time God is good. Kudos to all those involved in saving David’s life. God bless you all – Doctors and Nurses.Thanks Ruth, for giving us the link to read this awe inspiring story.

  • Eben Nana Kow Takyi Aikins
    June 10, 2016 | 6:35 pm

    Great story. thank God for all the heroics and the determination in the face of such staggering oppositions and challenges. GBU all. thanks Dawid for the story. we can all be inspired to do more for our people and humanity in general. so let’s talk right and faith all the time. let’s say our expectations and faith and not the fears. we can do it. let be inspired, let’s write the vision down and work towards it. it may tarry but surely it will come to pass. GBU Team Dawid, Nick, and Co. we love you. Great health to you David and family. love you!

  • Charles Leslie Van-Dyck
    June 10, 2016 | 7:04 pm

    Wow. This is truly touching. God bless you Dawid and the amazing Doctors. In times of trouble, God will remember this and will come through for you. I’m inspired.

  • Mawuse Ankugah
    June 10, 2016 | 8:44 pm

    David you have a heart of gold
    Kudos to you all for your commitment and doing your possible best to save a beautiful life.
    God bless you all….

  • Chaachele Ponu
    June 10, 2016 | 8:54 pm

    This is a one in a million real story told with just the right words! Ever thought abt the many of such kind that aren’t told or can’t be told? Peharps due to lack of education. . . What happens to those who know “nobody” and can’t pull strings? What about those who can’t even afford basic health care? There are a few people like Nick and a whole lot like the people in the home office even among us Ghanaians. Before you involve in any act of corruption think abt the chain of mishaps that single act can cause. Thank God for saving Dawid’s life, heaven knows those kids need him.

  • Akosa Antwi Boasiako
    June 10, 2016 | 8:56 pm

    God richly bless you (David) and Dr.Nick for such a wonderful work done. Am in tears hmmm.

  • Maame Araba Brew
    June 10, 2016 | 9:36 pm

    God shares his glory with no one and certainly not with the Home Office.
    God bless all involved in this spectacular miracle.

  • frank ofori
    June 10, 2016 | 10:37 pm

    hhhhmmmm what a story!! I am even speechless to find people who are really committed to working for humanity. God bless every body who contributed in one way or the other to help this man survive. I am a health worker and to be honest many people are dying simply because of luck of simple simple live saving devices!!! As for our leader God is watching them from a distance. The most painful thing is that most of the drugs in our hospitals are fake or less efficacious. I lost my baby girl in september last year after after she was delivered due to negligence and the worst is that people see things like these as normal. LEADERSHIPBIS CAUSE AND ANY OTHER THING IS EFFECT. It is high time we hold our leaders accountable for their actions and in actions.

  • Joanna Mateko Beyuo
    June 10, 2016 | 11:19 pm

    Well folks actually,Dawid can’t help himself because,he’s a prince who knows His God so,
    he must needs be gallant and do exploits!(Daniel 11:32)
    God bless you all,immensely,always. I pray that,He maintains your cause in all circumstances and,at all times. Amen!

  • Glo
    June 11, 2016 | 1:50 am

    Wow, that is our God at work. He makes a way where there seem to be no way
    To Him be all the glory
    Bless u team for remaining unshakeable and putting your FAITH into action fully

  • Ruth
    June 11, 2016 | 5:06 am

    To have friends who would move heaven and earth to assist you in times like these is rare,priceless friends,God bless you all and support your mission,as long as the motive is genuine,success is guaranteed…selah

  • Cis
    June 11, 2016 | 5:22 am

    Prof,Doc we salute you.God bless you.

  • Katharine Ampomah (Quist)
    June 11, 2016 | 6:44 am

    Thank you both.

  • Obour
    June 11, 2016 | 6:45 am

    God richly bless you. Really touched by his plight

  • Adjei Boye
    June 11, 2016 | 7:00 am

    Awesome!

  • Vivilus
    June 11, 2016 | 7:31 am

    To God be the glory great things he has done! God bless you angels who with faith and determination availed yourselves as tools in God’s hand to bring about this miracle. Amazing indeed! Count me in.

  • Ankomaba Dennis
    June 11, 2016 | 7:47 am

    God moves in mysterious ways His wonders to perform. What an inspiring and touching story. When God says YES no one can say NO. May the good Lord bless you all for saving David’s life.

  • Nikoi Kotey
    June 11, 2016 | 8:32 am

    Wow! Tears filled my eyes, and eventually dropped down my cheeks as read this impactful piece. God bless your kind hearts.

  • Kofi Allotey
    June 11, 2016 | 8:34 am

    I celebrate Nick and all who saved David’s life. My question is why can’t our politicians see the need to focus on healthcare in Ghana. They are misappropriating national resources and we keep quiet. We need to demand accountability. We need to be interested in what our state resources are being used for. What happens to those who cannot afford tickets or have a link to people like Nick. Ghana must do better for its people. After all how much was the kit Nick brought along. Even a private person provided the facility for the operation. What is Ghana Government doing for us. I feel so sad reading the story. Thank God it ended well. so sad

  • Richard Blay
    June 11, 2016 | 8:45 am

    Now that’s amazing resilience that pushes through giant odds. When I grow up I want to be like you. The write up is also captivating and very descriptive and I enjoyed reading it. (Although I suspect people with out much knowledge of the surgical procedure may not fully appreciate the difficulties and risks you guys took in doing the angioplasty).
    One thing that breaks my heart is how David’s family would have lost him if there was not a friend like you to rally the heavy contacts and resources to save him and the countless families that are loosing their loved ones because they don’t know anyone who can push through such thick forests to save them. I hope one day our country will have such facilities and funding to make these type of care easily accessible to the least of us.

  • Collins Anyan
    June 11, 2016 | 9:12 am

    God bless you DAWID KONOTEY-AHULU and Nick for such a selfless and humanitarian work you did for the sake of this man. I am really touched by the series of events that took place and how you fought against every impediment on your way for this happen. May the good Lord bless you all in abundance.
    The question is so can’t the Ministry of Health secure this kind of facility at least in all our teaching hospitals if people really matters. Imagine if it was just a regular guy without any connections outside. God help us.

  • Alfred Antwi
    June 11, 2016 | 11:15 am

    Dear Dawid,this is indeed a very touching story. God bless you and the doctor and of course all who helped in diverse ways to save the life of the young man.
    I only wish to say that …the only part of your story I felt was incomplete was failing to commend all the guys and especially the Ghana Immigration Service for opening doors for you when the British High Commission shut it in your face. The service like the high commission has protocols and bureaucracies but they were sped up or perhaps scalled to make it all possible.
    We are sometimes quick to condemn our system but when it is time to give some credits, we shy away from it.
    In any case, kudos.

    • Mensah
      June 11, 2016 | 11:23 am

      Apt

  • Emmanuel Parbey
    June 11, 2016 | 5:09 pm

    Hmmmmm… I don’t know what to say, but this story has challenged me not to spare any chance to show love, no matter the cost. May God bless all who were involved in saving David’s life. May lives be changed by reading this story.

  • Joe Adjei
    June 11, 2016 | 5:25 pm

    H333, what a spirit… You did absolutely great in doing everything possible to come to Accra wit Prof to save David’s life. It’s not his life alone that you saved but his family’s, friends and the entire nation. In fact I feel u saved my life too. Really wanna be your friend cos I cannot stop preaching this story.

    • Jim
      June 14, 2016 | 4:06 pm

      Incredible Grace for us all
      We will celebrate God’s Grace

  • Lavern
    June 11, 2016 | 6:01 pm

    It’s such a shame that in circumstances so critical the home office didnt do anything to help. However I’m not surprised. My daughter’s dad passed away 2 years ago, we applied for her to come to the UK to be by her dad’s side through his ordeal of cancer and her application was refused. They are willing to issue visas to criminals that come and cause great problems to the UK but true innocent people in situations such as life and death are refused. Thanks to the doctors that make sacrifices to help that young man. Even when it seems they wouldn’t get on that flight they didn’t give up they were still persistent. With such courage and determination I must say you are a great example, there are still few people out there that cares. God bless you all.

  • Daniel E.Y. Arkorful
    June 11, 2016 | 6:11 pm

    A living testimony. Great team and a great narrator. Please remember that all those delays, seeming refusals or blockades were important and allowed by God to prove himself the great ‘I am that I am’ who heals all our diseases. Four rounds of four barrels of water were put around Elijah’s altar to drench his firewood yet God set it on fire.

    Job 42:2 ‘I know that you can do all things, and that no purpose of yours
    can be thwarted’.
    Is 14:27 ‘For the Lord of hosts has purposed, and who will annul it? His hand is stretched out, and who will turn it back?’

    Prof Nick and entire team you played your roles whether immediate or delayed God is glorified.
    Thank you.

  • Francis Gota
    June 11, 2016 | 6:22 pm

    A true demonstration of true selflessness, compassion, LOVE, perseverance and true kindness. May God bless all the parties involved in saving our brother’s life. I am really touched by your story.
    God richly bless you and your generations

  • Michael
    June 11, 2016 | 8:06 pm

    Indeed God is really wonderful. This is a touching story. God bless everyone who did his best to save life. Good storyline.

  • Jonathan
    June 11, 2016 | 9:03 pm

    A fantastic job done. Hats off to you all. May you be rewarded by God in this life and in the next.

  • Jessie K. Neequaye
    June 11, 2016 | 9:08 pm

    A very touching, moving and inspiring story and very well scripted to give us the full and clear picture of all that happened. God bless Dawid, Nick , Dr Anaglate, Pamela and all those who worked tirelessly to save David’s life. You give meaning to love and humanity.

  • Charlotte Loh
    June 11, 2016 | 9:11 pm

    To all who contributed in saving Davids’ life, I say God bless you

  • Joy
    June 11, 2016 | 9:20 pm

    Laila, thanks for sharing this article. As an Intensive Care Nurse for many yrs & often we assist in cath labs performing procedures as this. As I slowly read this article my heart was literally in my stomach bcos I knew what could go wrong every step of Dr Nick’s procedure performing an angioplasty without current labs & tools & equipment. EXCELLENT article, well written. My hat goes off to this writer & Nick for not giving up on dear friend David. The Great Jehovah was with them!

  • Nkunimdini Asante-Antwi
    June 11, 2016 | 10:19 pm

    Wow!! Saw many folks sharing this on FB and was wondering what the fuss was about. Now I know. It would be remiss to honor your bravery and leadership with words only. Please let me know how I can make a ‘widow’s might’ contribution to your cardio-thoracic project. You can send same by email provided. Thanks for this. Greatness personified. And Dawid, you have a talent for effective communication. Riverting!!

  • Sophia Danquah
    June 11, 2016 | 10:40 pm

    Guys you are extremely kind. May the good Lord bless you and bless you and bless you and your families.

  • Darley
    June 11, 2016 | 10:54 pm

    God bless you Dawid et al for your tireless efforts and succesful outcome. Our God is indeed a great miracle working God. Kudos guys. Great idea Dawid on starting up something here in Ghana. Im in anytime.

  • Abraham Lincoln Owusu
    June 12, 2016 | 12:02 am

    It’s incredible how some high commissions and home offices treat innocent souls. You efforts would be crowned with glory one day guys. You are really heroes. God richly bless you.

  • Jackie
    June 12, 2016 | 2:34 am

    Wow. I’m speechless. Dawid, your friend is lucky to have you in his corner. God richly bless you and Nick for this selfless act. You are true humanitarians

  • cece
    June 12, 2016 | 6:47 am

    I shared a tear for this story…God bless all the people who got involved and helped…
    God is never Dead!!! All u need is faith.

  • Jessie K. Neequaye
    June 12, 2016 | 10:27 am

    And I also pray that God grants David total healing. Once again God bless all those who allowed themselves to be used by God for this miracle to happen. I respect you all!

  • Exonam
    June 12, 2016 | 3:50 pm

    Miracle working God, there is none like you! I shall contribute to the fund. Just let me know where to send it. Congratulations to all in this action-packed drama!

  • Joanita da Pilma
    June 12, 2016 | 5:18 pm

    God bless you all. Nick, Dawid and David.

  • Keren – Happuch Dickah
    June 12, 2016 | 7:05 pm

    We serve a living God. Jesus is indeed Lord. Let’s all put our Trust in Him completely. Praise the Lord! !!

  • Richmond Adusa-Poku
    June 12, 2016 | 7:45 pm

    Wow. This human story must be brought to the silver screen to be shared with the rest of the world. Akosua Busia and Co must let Hollywood tell this story.

    I need to share it with my school mate ,Dr Felix Yamoah, who is a interventional cardiologist in Germany. It is time such highly trained doctors shared their knowledge and train local doctors.

    • Dawid Konotey-Ahulu
      June 12, 2016 | 9:17 pm

      Richmond – you are totally correct. The sooner we can import back the IP that has gone abroad, the sooner we can make a difference to people who have little access to diagnostics or treatment. Thank you for your comment.

      • Naa
        June 13, 2016 | 8:40 pm

        To God be the glory, great things He hath done.
        God bless you Nick, Dawid and all who helped in many diverse ways.
        To David, I wish you speedy recovery and to your wife and children, I say you are more than conquerors because of the blood of Jesus upon your lives. God bless you all.

      • Humphrey Armah
        June 15, 2016 | 9:15 am

        Great work David, Ayekoo!!! I want to be your friend. I’m a Minister with the Assemblies of God Church in Accra.

  • Ruth
    June 14, 2016 | 2:04 pm

    I had a terrible experience with the UK Home Office between 2011 and 2013 and almost lost my mind had it not been for God’s grace and supportive family and friends. It was a rough time as an International African student who followed the immigration rules to the letter but paid for being honest. In those 24 months, I lost lots of money, my dad passed, I had to battle my case with the Home Office in court, I got sick and had many other surreal experiences that could have just made me a nut case. Maybe it’s time to share the full length of my story if it will make any difference.

  • Richard Kane
    June 14, 2016 | 3:11 pm

    Hey Dawid, This is a great story of dogged determination eclipsing petty bureaucracy. Fabulous

  • wil Bediako
    June 14, 2016 | 5:24 pm

    I am in awe! Nothing is impossible if you put your mind to it. I needed to be reminded of that today! God bless everyone in this story.

  • Isaac Asiamah,Narhbita hospital,tema
    June 16, 2016 | 10:28 am

    God richly bless you and Prof Nick for your God – given humanitarian service.
    we thank God for saving the the life of David.
    I will be available to be trained in that regard

  • Dziedzorm Gbevor
    June 16, 2016 | 11:38 am

    Wow. God bless you Dawid you guys saved a life. Seeing Mr. David Okai entering our office was a miraculous one….

  • Kwasi Atobra
    June 27, 2016 | 10:39 pm

    The world will know no peace until the last Home Office bureaucrat is strangled with the entrails of the last English MP!
    Having said that, one must indict Ghana’s leadership; Ghana is a lucky country — endowed with Gold, diamonds, timber, oil, bauxite, cocoa, and the spirit exhibited by these two guys — run by second rate people who share only its luck. There is no wisdom, no caring, no thinking, no strategy, just plain old banal greed and waste by mendacious and venal politicians. If it weren’t so, its citizens would need no visas to travel abroad for angioplasty. Sad, heroic, amazing, uplifting story of selflessness par excellence.

  • Kobina
    July 6, 2016 | 2:33 pm

    We have angels living amongst us on earth. Oh yes. We do!!! They come in the form of the Dr. Gyennings and Dr. Anaglates and Dawids and all members of the team.
    Bravo and God richly bless you

  • Francis Arthur
    July 10, 2016 | 5:24 am

    Wow, this is a touching story and tells me that we should believe in our Ghanaian Doctors, Thanks Dr.MOBA is proud of you and thanks Dawid Ahulu.God bless you all.

    • Nii Nablah
      July 31, 2016 | 10:56 am

      The things that happen in real life….My goodness ! May God bless all who contributed to the happy ending. Let’s all donate and push Govt to provide the required resources to the Cardiothoracic Centre at Korle-Bu for starters.

  • Olubanke Afuwape
    August 20, 2016 | 6:33 am

    Wow was in tears. So touching. God bless and enlarge Nick and his friends. We need people like you to make the world a better place

  • Ike Ackun
    December 14, 2016 | 10:26 am

    This is touching and God bless you for the great effort put in saving David’s life despite all the challenges all the players have to go through to bring this to reality. Not in the medical field but available to contribute my quota to your course.

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