Two critically ill Guyanese youths have received financial assistance from Grace, Kennedy Remittance Services (Guyana) Ltd/Western Union to enable them to acquire medical treatment in Trinidad and Tobago.

From left: Marketing Manager, Jennifer Cipriani-Nelson; Simone Allen (Mother of Denzil Allen); Gloria Chase (Mother of Anthony Abrams); Colleen Patterson, Operations Manager; Alexis Stephens, Communications Coordinator

The two are Denzil Allen, aged nine years, and Dennis Anthony Abrams, aged 22 years. Denzil has been diagnosed with a tumor of the brain and Dennis with a tumor of the spine.

Despite being recommended for early surgeries after being seen by Neurosurgeon Dr. Richard Spann, the parents of both young both men were experiencing difficulties trying to raise funds for the treatment.

On learning of their plight, GKRS (Guyana) Ltd, presented the parents with a cheque to cover the cost of hospitalization.

In making the presentation, Coleen Patterson, GKRS’ Operations Manager, said that the plight of Denzel and Dennis was particularly touching because of their youth. She added that GKRS (Guyana) Ltd. was pleased to be able to help in some way to alleviate their suffering. She then extended the company’s best wishes to both young men for a safe surgery and a speedy recovery.

The Operations Manager pointed out that GKRS remained committed to helping people to solve the hassles in their lives by bringing service and convenience closer to them. By extension, she noted that the company had been unflinching in its support to local communities and individuals through its various sponsorship initiatives.

In spite of his illness, Denzil Allen, normally a lively robust student at the top of his class, had been struggling to continue his schooling. As his condition worsened he was forced to abandon his studies.

Dennis Abrams, a student of the Government Technical Institute, loves to play cricket and is an active member of his church.

Thanks to the combined efforts of GKRS, the Ministry of Health and The Caricom Secretariat in Guyana, the two young men are now in Trinidad. The older of the two has had surgery and is under observation. Denzil is still awaiting surgery.

Even with surgery both young men still have a long recovery ahead. Following surgery there will be chemotherapy treatment and more testing before they can return home.

Posted: April 7, 2005