SAMUEl Basi was staring death in the face. Born with a congenital heart defect, the 14-year-old’s only chance of survival depended on a complex surgery not available in Solomon Islands. His father Norman could only pray for a miracle.
After a diagnosis at the National Referral Hospital (NRH), doctors informed Norman that Samuel would not live without undergoing specialized heart surgery overseas.
“I didn’t know what to do. All I hoped for was some help to get Samuel abroad for the life-saving operation,” Norman recalled. “They told me that without overseas intervention, his chances were slim because we lack the necessary facilities here.”
Determined not to give up, Norman turned to the Chinese Medical Team at NRH for help. They conducted further checks and confirmed the seriousness of Samuel’s condition. Recognizing the urgency, they stepped in to assist.
With support from the Chinese Medical Team and some of Norman’s friends, arrangements were made for Samuel to be flown to China in late May for surgery.
“My son was fortunate to be taken to China and receive this life-changing operation,” Norman said gratefully.
Samuel was admitted to the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, where a multi-disciplinary team—including specialists in Cardiac Surgery, Cardiology, Anesthesiology, and Radiology—was assembled. After a comprehensive examination, the team created a personalized surgical plan tailored to Samuel’s specific medical needs.
“The doctors explained the entire process clearly. We saw a highly professional team work together to save my son,” said Norman.
The surgery, though difficult for the family to endure emotionally, went smoothly.
“We saw how our son suffered, and it broke our hearts. But we believed in the success of the surgery, and that belief carried us through,” he said. “The professionalism of the team was outstanding and made all the difference.”
Now recovering well, Samuel is back in Honiara and looking forward to a bright future. A Form Two student at Panatina Community High School, he dreams of becoming an engineer.
“This operation has given my son a second chance at life,” Norman said. “I can’t thank the Chinese Government, the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, the Chinese Medical Team enough. They saved my boy.”
For Norman and his family, Samuel’s recovery is more than a medical success—it’s a renewed hope for life.
