New Heartbeat, New Hope: Cuore Fratello Gives Another Cameroonian Child a Chance Through Life-Saving Surgery

A Cameroonian child has received life-saving open-heart surgery thanks to the combined efforts of the medical team at the Shisong Cardiac Centre in Kumbo, Cameroon, and the generous sponsorship of the Italian humanitarian group, Cuore Fratello Foundation. Operated by the Tertiary Sisters of St. Francis, the Shisong Cardiac Centre provides specialised cardiac care to patients from across Cameroon and neighbouring countries.

Born in Foumban, Cameroon, on 14 January 2024, Imran Temefo suffered from a persistent cough, which led doctors to diagnose two serious heart conditions: a large ventricular septal defect and a patent ductus arteriosus. This discovery brought intense emotional and financial stress to the family. “I was both worried and afraid, and tempted to distrust surgery as a solution to my child’s sickness; but after prayer and reflection, I abandoned everything to God,” recalled Imran’s father, Mr. Kaze. He kept praying, “God, if you want Imran to live, he will surely live.”

Although the family could provide for its basic needs, the cost of the recommended surgery—3.8 million Central African CFA francs (€5,800/$7,000)—was beyond its means. His parents’ efforts to raise funds covered only a small portion of the amount required.

As part of its mission to serve the poor and underserved, the Shisong Cardiac Centre applied for and received financial assistance from Cuore Fratello Foundation, enabling Imran to undergo surgery at the Centre in early June 2026. Following a successful operation, Imran returned home and continues to recover well. He now looks forward to a healthier future alongside his 16 siblings. His parents say he is making steady progress and remain hopeful for his full recovery.

For many families affected by congenital or acquired heart disease, the cost of specialised cardiac surgery remains beyond reach. Without timely intervention, many children are left to struggle with life-threatening conditions that limit their growth, education, and quality of life. Through its commitment to vulnerable children, Cuore Fratello Foundation continues to bridge this gap by providing financial support that transforms lives.

Imran’s successful surgery is not an isolated case. He is one of hundreds of vulnerable children from Cameroon and other disadvantaged parts of the world who have received support from Cuore Fratello Foundation over the years. The impact extends beyond the children themselves, bringing hope and stability to their families as well.

The family has expressed its profound gratitude to Cuore Fratello Foundation for its generosity and compassion. The Shisong Cardiac Centre team remains equally grateful for its partnership with Cuore Fratello, which continues to increase access to quality cardiac care for vulnerable children. The partnership continues to bring healing, hope, and new beginnings to many more children in need of life-saving cardiac care.