Twenty-year-old Azaar Mitchell from Montserrat urgently needs costly, life-saving treatment to combat a painful and debilitating heart condition.
His stepmother, Shimmoya Latty-Mitchell, is appealing to the community for support in raising the EC$90,000 needed for a pacemaker and related medical expenses.
In an interview with ZJB Radio, she explained that her stepson has been experiencing symptoms – including fainting, headaches, shortness of breath, and chest pains – for four years.
Despite numerous tests, his condition was only diagnosed after a particularly severe episode in September, during which his heart stopped, leaving him unresponsive and hospitalised for two weeks.
After being advised to go to Jamaica for further testing, doctors confirmed that Azaar urgently needs a pacemaker.
However, the total cost for the device and associated medical expenses is estimated at about $91,407 – a significant burden for the family.
Fundraising options
Azaar completed his secondary education at Montserrat Secondary School and went on to work as an orderly at the Glendon Hospital.
His stepmother explained that he is now in Jamaica, confined to his bed most of the time, as any activity could put him at serious risk.
“He’s currently in a lot of pain, and he has to be taking heart medication three times a day,” Latty-Mitchell said.
The family is exploring various fundraising options, including organising a gospel concert in Azaar’s honour.
Known for his musical talent, Azaar won Montserrat’s first gospel competition in 2022 and has contributed to numerous community events since, despite his health struggles.
Latty-Mitchell expressed her gratitude for the community’s ongoing support but stressed the urgency of the situation.
“I’m just calling on the public… to just come on board in whatever way they can to help to save his life, because it is very, very serious,” she said.
She said that Azaar has always been willing to contribute to the community of Montserrat when needed, despite his illness, and now he is in “dire need of help”.
Contributions from Montserrat can be made to Azaar Mitchell at the St Patrick’s Cooperative Credit Union, Account Number: 1077757.
Those wanting to contribute from abroad can make donations to Shimmoya Mitchell of Cudjoe Head at Bank of Montserrat Ltd, Brades, Montserrat, Account Number: 7186217, SWIFT: BKMOMSMS.
To find out how to donate in person, explore other ways to support the cause or for further information call or WhatsApp Shimmoya Latty-Mitchell on (664) 496-2899.
