A LIFE-CHANGING operation has given a bright future to a Timor Leste woman – partly thanks to Seaford Carrum Downs Rotary.
The club brought Jesuina da Costa Belo to Melbourne for open heart surgery, which is not available that country.
Rotary Oceania Medical Aid for Children organised the trip for Jesuina and her mother, Teresa, for the operation at the Monash Medical Centre, Clayton. She was treated pro bono by cardiac surgeon Professor Andrew Cochrane.
Seaford Carrum Downs Rotary Club members John and Judy Berends enjoyed their role as the women’s hosts. “Despite the language barrier everything went well and Jesuina is recuperating fast,” Mr Berends said.
“Although they love Australia they are keen to go back home to Jesuina’s six sisters and her father.
“Jesuina can now look forward to a normal and healthy future.”
