Elder Gong Presents Church’s Donation to Expand Pediatric Services in Argentina

The SAMIC “Prof. Dr. Juan P. Garrahan” Pediatric Hospital in Buenos Aires, Argentina, can now treat twice as many children and adolescents, with help from a donation from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Elder Gerrit W. Gong of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles presented the donation during a visit to and tour of the hospital on Tuesday, November 12, 2024.

The donation includes two mobile color Doppler ultrasound machines, two transport and recovery stretchers, and the complete furnishing of two newly renovated procedure rooms equipped with the latest technology.

This new equipment will allow the hospital to perform twice as many minimally invasive procedures daily, improving care for over 3,000 young patients in the first year.

The donation also addresses the hospital’s growing demand for minimally invasive procedures like IV-line placements, lumbar punctures and catheter removals.

“This donation allows us to provide better, more accurate treatments, ensuring that children receive the care they deserve without unnecessary pain or delays,” said Antonio Ayala, a local Church leader and hospital nurse. “Today is a very special day for me as Elder Gong, an Apostle of the Lord, visited this establishment to witness the impact of this meaningful contribution.”

Elder Gong praised Garrahan Hospital’s dedication to pediatric healthcare and reaffirmed the Church’s commitment to supporting initiatives that strengthen community well-being and improve critical services.

The Church previously collaborated with Garrahan Hospital in 2020, providing medical equipment during a time of significant health and economic challenges.

Elder Eduardo Gavarret, Second Counselor in the South America South Area Presidency, and his wife, Norma, also attended the hospital tour. Soraya El Kik, chair of the board of directors, and Mariel Sánchez, executive medical director, represented the hospital.