UPDATE: GoFundMe launched for severely burnt 3-year-old
The fund, created by aunt Virginia Karene Auguste, now has a goal of US $50,000 and up to publication time had raised in excess of $2,500 of its target on the platform.
The GoFundMe explained, “A little more than 50% of his body was burned and the family is in urgent need of financial assistance to travel to Trinidad for the operation. The family recently lost a lot in the hurricanes that hit the Caribbean recently, and live on the small island of Virgin Gorda.”
So far, the post on VINO’s social media pages has since accumulated hundreds of shares with thousands of engagement from users wanting to pitch in.
The child’s mother, Vernessa Charles, told our newsroom the family is still awaiting final word from the hospital in Trinidad and Tobago on the total cost.
"The medical expenses are a large hindrance in the commencement of his treatment and admittance by the hospital. The hospital alone requires a down payment before any surgeries can take place, plus the costs of travel. Medical insurance is not an option as it is not something that is used in the British Caribbean islands," the online fundraising campaign said.
The GoFundMe link for persons looking to donate is available here.
See previous article published October 9, 2019
Family pleads for donations for 3-year old severely burnt @ VG home
A Virgin Gorda family is pleading with the public for financial assistance to help airlift their son, 3-year-old Micheal A. Charles, for treatment in Trinidad and Tobago after he received second-degree burns in a kitchen accident at the family's home on Sunday, October 6, 2019.
The issue was first brought to the media's attention through several posts by the child's family, specifically the child's uncle, Benjamin Mathurin, who pleaded with the public and members on social media to help donate toward the high medical bill.
Child to receive treatment in T&T medical
In the Facebook post, he said, "I don’t usually do this but my nephew was burnt with hot water which resulted in 2nd-degree burns and is in critical condition. He has to be taken to Trinidad for care immediately I ask the public for help I know a lot may say it’s not their concern but he is only a kid anything you can donate will be greatly appreciated."
Further, Mathurin noted he can be contacted on +1 (758)-284-9589 or his parents +1 (284) 343-3166 and said the child is currently in the VI awaiting a flight to leave with the required amount of US $6700.
However, when Virgin Islands News Online (VINO) reached out to the family, the figure required appeared to be much larger than originally anticipated. The uncle told this news website, "They won't allow him to go without the advance payment, so to help I'm trying my best to get monies together to aid but my help isn't enough."
He said the situation is one that requires immediate attention, however, due to lack of funds the child is still at Peebles Hospital.
Deposit needed before the airlift
VINO reached out to the toddler's mother, Vernessa Charles, who has since revealed they have managed to raise about $4000 and the total fee for just the transportation is $23,737; however, a deposit is required before the child can leave the territory which represents 20% airlift cost.
According to the uncle, "He was running, missed a fall and hit the stove which had water boiling to prepare a warm bath." He said the airlift fee is a partial $6700 deposit, however, the figure for the full treatment will be much greater.
They are seeking urgent donations which can be made at Scotiabank account number, 108001038 or contact the mother, Ms Charles at +1 (284) 343-3166, for more information.
The family is looking to airlift the child as soon as all the necessary funds are available.
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33 Responses to “UPDATE: GoFundMe launched for severely burnt 3-year-old”
Hope they get that prompt assistance from the public very soon.
I love children so if I had that money I would have paid that bill for the parents.
People whenever you are boiling water you need to put it on the back burner for safety, also boil it in a kettle for safety. You also don't have to boil that water for too long. It don't need to be to hot especially in our very warm climate.
I pray for this little boy.
My prayers are with the family!
Please do not let the child wait until the funds are collected. Timing of receipt of the necessay care is very important in this case.
Where was his mom or any adult in the house? Someone was careless with this child’s life.
This can’t be easy for him, I pray he gets through this.