Zürcher Nachrichten - Maltese President Visits London Hospital to Support Families Facing Medical Care Challenges

President Myriam Spiteri Debono visited a three-year-old Maltese girl receiving specialized treatment at Great Ormond Street Hospital in London on Thursday, highlighting the ongoing support required for families navigating extended medical stays abroad.

The child has been undergoing care in the United Kingdom for approximately three months, with medical professionals expecting her to remain there for several additional months. During the visit, the President met with the girl’s parents and her young brother, who have accompanied her to London throughout her treatment.

Spiteri Debono was accompanied by Health Minister Ian Borg, Malta’s High Commissioner to the UK Professor Stephen Montefort, and officials from the Malta Community Chest Fund. The visit underscored the logistical and emotional challenges faced by Maltese families who must spend extended periods abroad while their loved ones receive medical care.

The President stressed the importance of organizations such as the Malta Community Chest Fund, which provide assistance not only to patients but also to relatives who often have to leave their everyday lives behind.

Spiteri Debono also visited the Franciscan Sisters of the Heart of Jesus, who accommodate Maltese patients and their families in London. There are currently 40 Maltese patients in the UK who have been discharged from hospital but are still unable to return home because they require further medical appointments, consultations, and tests.

During her visit, Spiteri Debono spoke with patients and relatives about their experiences alongside representatives of the Augustinian Sisters, who also provide accommodation to Maltese families. The President’s visit to London is scheduled to conclude on Friday, when she is expected to meet Maltese patients at the Royal Marsden Hospital in Sutton and visit families staying in Puttinu Cares apartments.

F.Carpenteri--NZN