In Loving Memory
Franklin Santiago

On January 2, 2024, tragedy struck when nine-year-old Franklin Santiago suffered severe burns covering approximately 84% of his body in a fire accident at his home in Mabaruma, Guyana. The incident occurred when a gasoline container ignited and exploded, engulfing Franklin and injuring his father, while also causing significant damage to their residence.

Franklin was swiftly transported to Georgetown Public Hospital for immediate treatment. However, recognizing the critical nature of his injuries, doctors at GPHC recommended transfer to a US burn center, where Franklin could receive treatment in a more advanced medical setting. They then reached out to SHEA Charity for assistance, and with swift action, SHEA quickly coordinated Franklin’s transfer from GPHC to the United States via Medevac.

Despite ongoing donations, the need for financial support remained crucial to sustain Franklin's treatment..

January 8, 2024
Franklin departing Guyana, bound for the United States, via air ambulance (medevac).

January 13, 2024
Franklin succumbed to his injuries.

Regrettably, despite collective efforts, Franklin succumbed to complications arising from his burns. This heartbreaking news deeply affected his family, the SHEA team, and Franklin's medical caregivers in Guyana and the US. Arrangements were made to repatriate Franklin's body to Guyana, where he was laid to rest on January 23, 2023.

Please continue to keep Franklin's family in your thoughts during this difficult time.