Security guard seeks help to get heart surgery

Up until last Monday, Alvin Wallen was living a regular life and appeared to be in good health.

However, that was far from the truth. The following day, Wallen, who is a security guard, was heading to work when he collapsed and was rushed to the Spanish Town Hospital.

His mother Mary Bailey told THE STAR that he was transferred to the University Hospital of the West Indies, where it was diagnosed that he had a heart infection that decreases the blood flow to the vital organ.

"Mi really a seek some financial assistance for him. He never had a problem with his heart before and now he is placed on six weeks antibiotics treatment. He also needs to do surgery as soon as possible to replace a valve. I really cannot afford to come up with this money by myself," she said.

She stated that the valve replacement and hospital fees will add up to at least J$1.1 million, but she is yet to come up with even a quarter of the amount.

Wallen, who recently celebrated his 32nd birthday, is the father of three children.

"The doctors said if he gets the valve, it will last at least 30 years, so if he could live another 30 years with his children, that would really be a blessing. Someone had contacted me to say that she would purchase the valve for me and I am really praying that it works out, " Bailey said.

Persons wishing to assist Wallen may contact his mother at 876 447 4795 or 876 532 8171.