After the tragic incident that occurred in the Planes de Gualaca, Chiriquí, Panama on February 15, in which 41 migrants lost their lives, many actions have been taken to respond to the needs of the survivors and relatives of the victims.
While the authorities of the Institute of Legal Medicine and Forensic Sciences of Panama carry out the pertinent procedures to complete the process of identifying the victims, medical attention continues to be provided for the injured. According to an official statement from the José Domingo de Obaldía Maternal and Child Hospital in Chiriquí, the condition of the 9 minors admitted to its facilities is stable. The adults who are in the Rafael Hernández Regional Hospital have already received the required surgical interventions and are in the recovery process. The health authorities assure that both children and adults are being cared for by an interdisciplinary team that includes the necessary emotional and therapeutic support. Patients in the Intensive Care Unit remain stable and under the strict care of medical staff.
Meanwhile, Red Clamor and its member organizations have not stopped working. In Chiriquí, the Miraculous Medal Home of the Daughters of Charity has been conditioned to house patients and their families once they are discharged from hospitals. Thanks to the coordination with the government authorities, civil society and ecclesial movements, we are ready to receive the migrants who are discharged.
Because 40 beds have been conditioned, it is also possible to accommodate family members who come from their countries of origin to accompany the patients in their recovery and others who traveled with them and who are currently in the Gualaca Refuge.
The Franciscan Network for Migrants in Panama appreciates the solidarity and generosity of the people who have sent their donations to Hogar Medalla Milagrosa and we ask God to multiply their charity in blessings.
At this time, tables are required to set up the dining room, nightstands to put next to the patients’ beds, donations of toiletries, food supplies, comfortable clothing and shoes such as flip-flops.
To send your donations, you can go to Hogar Medalla Milagrosa in the city of David, Barrio Bolívar, Chiriquí or to the Banco General savings account No. 4-30-01-069691-6 in the name of Cta. of the Daughters of Charity of Saint Vincent de Paul – Miraculous Medal Community.
Panama, February 20, 2023
Vivian Cianca
RFM-Panama
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