Elaine Esther Akosua Owusu, a 7-month old baby who was sponsored by Staff of Stanbic Bank to undergo surgery in India has returned home safe and sound.

Born with one large hole and two small ones in her heart, Baby Elaine’s condition could not be treated in Ghana. Doctors recommended a surgery at Apollo Children’s Hospital in India, without which she would die in four months.

Staff of Stanbic Bank Ghana spearheaded a campaign to raise an amount in excess of $8500 to support the cost of surgery to correct Elaine’s condition. That campaign also saw well-meaning Ghanaians contribute to the course.

According to her doctors, Elaine underwent a successful surgery and is as fit as fiddle. She is however scheduled for periodic check-ups at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital.

“From the day she was brought from ICU, we saw a drastic change,” Abigail Amissah Owusu, Elaine’s mother recounted. “She has become a very happy and lively baby and now sleeps well and eats well. We are eternally grateful for this kind gesture from Stanbic Bank.”

She also expressed appreciation to Starr FM and Graphic Communications for helping appeal for more funds through their media.

According to Samuel Teye, Head, Human Capital, Stanbic Bank, staff of the Bank, saw the plight of little Elaine as a call to duty.

“The gesture was beyond the fundamental human needs; it was the need to support a life,” Mr. Teye said. “We are all very elated that the surgery was successful and Elaine can now live a healthy life.”

He added it will be great to see Elaine walk in the next few years, knowing that staff of the bank were part of a contribution to make her become what she wants to be in future – a cause he believes is worthy and self-rewarding.

Staff of Stanbic are committed to empowering the less privileged – a culture which is in tandem with Stanbic Bank’s principle of supporting and caring for the vulnerable.

They are also often encouraged to identify and contribute towards offering social support in education, sports development, the agricultural sector, poverty relief, health and environmental protection.