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By Isanella Patoir

isanella@newsroom.gy

The Neurosurgery Department of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) recently performed a record eight complex brain tumours within six days, marking a significant step in advancing neurosurgery.

This is a direct result of the acquisition of the state-of-the-art $69 million CUSA Clarity surgical system, a first for Guyana and the Caribbean region.

The surgeries are part of ‘Operation Brain Tumour’ that was created to clear the backlog of complex brain tumours.

GPHC’s Chief Neurosurgeon Dr. Amarnauth Duhki highlighted the transformative impact of the equipment during a press briefing on Monday and stated, “The CUSA is one of the most surgically advanced equipment for the removal of delicate tumours in very difficult areas of the brain.”

With the CUSA clarity equipment, surgical time is reduced significantly, complications are also minimised and it also allows for precision during surgery.

Previously, such complex surgeries had to be performed overseas and, as Dr. Duhki explained, this was not due to lack of skilled personnel “but because we were not fully equipped to safely remove these type of brain tumours.”

Of the eight surgeries performed last week, seven were successfully completed on the first attempt.

“We had one case where we had to re-intervene and it was completed and done safely,” the neurosurgeon said while explaining that this particular patient suffered a brain bleed post-op.

Five patients have already been discharged from the hospital.
One remarkable case involved a 10-year-old boy from Leguan who had a complex brain tumour. His mother, Lalita Singh, recounted their journey, describing how her son began experiencing symptoms such as vomiting and headaches earlier this year in May.

He was taken to the Leguan Hospital where he was treated for stomach issues. Singh recalled that the vomiting eased for a while.

“Then in August he take down again with the vomiting and this time he started with headaches and eye aches and I decided to take him to the eye doctor,” the mother explained.

There she was informed that his eye nerves are swollen and an MRI was recommended. The young child was then diagnosed with medulloblastoma, a fast-growing brain tumor that forms in the cerebellum, the part of the brain that controls balance and coordination.

His surgery took six hours but without the CUSA clarity equipment, would have taken 10-12 hours. Singh said he could not stand without support and is now able to walk by himself.

“It wasn’t an easy journey for us and the journey has not ended but I have to say thanks to Dr Duhki and team…I am grateful for everything,” Singh said.

Another notable success, Dr Duhki revealed, was the case of a 22-year-old woman who had been sent back from the United Kingdom after doctors there deemed her brain tumour inoperable.

“She came here, we took the challenge and we removed the tumour and she will be discharged tomorrow, she is sitting up in bed and talking to us,” Dr Duhki said.

This, he said, is a testament to the advanced surgical services now available at the hospital.

Dr. Duhki further emphasised the hospital’s advancement in the Caribbean region, noting that it now offers vascular neurosurgical care and minimally invasive surgeries for brain aneurysms.

Recently, a nine-year-old child with a massive arteriovenous malformation (AVM), was successfully treated surgically at GPHC, further demonstrating the hospital’s expanding capabilities.

“Not only the department but GPHC has advanced regionally, in terms of what services we offer and in terms of neurosurgery capacity,” Dr Duhki said.

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The Civil Aviation Training School (CATS) on Monday held its graduation ceremony at the Umana Yana, where 36 persons graduated in various disciplines such as Flight Information and Alerting Services and Approach Control.

Twenty-three out of the 36 persons graduated as Aeronautical Information Management Officers and Air Traffic Control Assistants after completing 6 months of classroom training.

Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, M.P. during his feature address said that “the Civil Aviation Training School has recently completed an audit and acquired its TRAINAIR PLUS accreditation from the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), which means that the training provided by CATS will be globally recognized by ICAO member States.”

Minister Edghill said “we will no longer have to go to seek the training, because now we will be offering the training, and our people can benefit from it right here in Guyana.”

Minister Edghill noted that the country’s record on safety and its capacity to regulate the aviation industry and the excellent work done by Air Traffic controllers must be applauded.

The Civil Aviation Training School has conducted 14 training courses for 2024, one of which was done for the Cayman Island Airport Authority, making it the first international training delivered by the school. The training was done virtually through a recently acquired Moodle Learning Management System, which is used for the development and presentation of online training.

Minister Edghill challenged the graduands to not only have a good attitude but also to have a good conduct as they discharge their responsibility in the profession (Press release) 

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The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security has commenced distributing the 2025 Old Age Pension (OAP) books, aiming to complete the process by January 31.

The books will remain available throughout the year for individuals turning 65.

Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Vindhya Persaud attributed the delayed distribution to the discovery of unauthorised pension books in circulation, necessitating the redesign of the books with enhanced security features.

“We sincerely apologise for the delay…we had to change the security feature on the book to ensure transparency, accountability, and prevent any recurrence of this issue,” the minister stated during a recent video broadcast.

Despite the setback, the ministry began distributing books in December and is intensifying efforts ahead of Christmas.

Minister Persaud noted that since 2021, the ministry has distributed pension books before the start of the new year, enabling pensioners to plan effectively.

Moreover, pensioners are advised to check distribution schedules published in newspapers and on the ministry’s social media page.

Locations have been organised for efficient service, with attendees seated in rows and served sequentially.

Pensioners are required to present their National Identification (ID) card and previous pension book to collect their new books.

Officials will verify their identity and issue the updated book.

The ministry has integrated the registration process for the government’s $100,000 cash grant with pension book distribution.

Special sections at most sites facilitate this.

Shut-in or homebound pensioners will have both their grant registration and book delivery conducted at their residences.

Additionally, distribution of the 2025 Permanent Disability Books has begun in regions 1, 7, 8, and 9 at the same pension distribution sites.

Dates for other regions will be announced soon.

Minister Vindhya reaffirmed its commitment to a seamless process, pledging to provide regular updates to keep pensioners informed (Republished from the Department of Public Information) 

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The Guyana Police Force (GPF) on Monday addressed recent media claims concerning the alleged transfer of Deputy Superintendent Phiona Harris and matters involving Ms. Adonika Aulder, the wife of Assistant Police Commissioner Mr. Calvin Brutus, who recently left the country.

In a statement issued to clarify the situation, the GPF confirmed that it fully respects the court’s decision that permitted Ms. Aulder to travel abroad for medical reasons.

The police force assured the public that all necessary procedures were followed to facilitate her departure, which involved coordination between Superintendent Stephen Telford, Deputy Chief Immigration Officer, and Deputy Superintendent Harris.

The GPF also stressed that there was no truth to the claims that Deputy Superintendent Harris had been transferred. The force confirmed that no transfer orders were issued by the Deputy Chief Immigration Officer or the Executive Leadership Team (ELT) of the GPF.

The force categorically rejected rumours suggesting that Harris had acted outside her authority or violated any protocols in her handling of the matter.

In response to further allegations circulating in the media, the GPF firmly refuted claims that officers were being threatened with demotion, transfer, or criminal charges over the situation. The force reiterated its commitment to professionalism, fairness, and adherence to established procedures.

The GPF concluded by urging both the media and the public to exercise caution when disseminating unverified information and reiterated its ongoing commitment to transparency, integrity, and the protection of its officers.

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Mahdia’s Movements Family emerged as champions of the inaugural Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) Harmony League T10 Tapeball Tournament.

A powerful batting performance from Ricardo Adams and Ershaad Ali propelled Mahdia to a convincing victory over Lil Rams in the final at the Everest Cricket Club on Sunday.

The duo’s explosive batting display proved too much for the opposition.

Set a target of  95, Adams, who made 44* (4x4s;3x6s) from 27 balls, and Ali, who made 41* (1×4;5x6s) from 14 balls, quickly steered the title Mahdia’s way.

Earlier, National player Kemol Savory topped-scored for Lil Rams with 33, while Riyad Latiff made 23.

Floy Joseph (3-24), Neiland Cadogan (2-23) and Calos LaRose (1-9) kept a strangehold on Lil Rams.

Before the final, legendary West Indian captain Sir Clive Lloyd and Commissioners from the ERC greeted the teams.

Forty-eight teams from each of the counties competed in the tournament that commenced on November 17.

Given the success and interest of players,  the ERC is expected to host a bigger event in 2025.

Through this initiative, the ERC aimed to build lasting connections among participants, promote mutual respect and strengthen community ties across Guyana.

ERC’s Chairman Shaikh Moeenul Hack hands over the first place prize to the captain of Mahdia, Raydon Austin

Prize Summary:

Winner ($500,000): Mahdia – Movements Family

Runner-Up ($250,000): Lil Rams

Losing Semi-finalist One ($100,000): The Guards

Losing Semi-finalist Two ($100,000): CJIA Warriors

Most Valuable Player ($100,000): Riyad Latif (129 runs; five wickets; seven dismissals)

Most Runs ($60,000): Ershaad Ali (183 runs; Avg: 183: SR: 305.00)

Most Wickets ($60,000): Ganesh Surijpaul (11 wickets; Econ: 8.21; Avg: 7.09

Player-of-the-Final ($60,000): Ricardo Adams

Summary of Finals

Semi-Final One : Lil Rams 122-3 from 10 overs (Shamar Apple 40, Jonathan Van Lange 20, Kemol Savory 19; Mark Jeffers 1-21, Ronaldo Alimohamed 1-29) v The Guards 66-7 from 9.4 overs (Christopher Barnwell 27, Sheldon Alexander 15, Shemroy Barrington 13; Ganesh Surijpaul 3-6, Marlon Boele 3-12)

Semi-Final Two: CJIA Warriors 90-6 from 10 overs (Shakiel Wong 28, Alvin Ramdeholl 13, Noel Eveyln 12; Raydon Austin 2-4, Suresh Dhani 2-9) v Mahdia 91-0 from 5.2 overs (Ershaad Ali 59*, Ricardo Adams 28*)

FINAL: Lil Rams 94-8 from 10 overs (Kemol Savory 33, Riyad Latif 23, Thaddeus Lovell 14; Floy Joseph 3-24, Neiland Cadogan 2-23, Carlos LaRose 1-9) v Mahdia 100-0 from 6.5 overs (Ricardo Adams 44*, Ershaad Ali 41*)

FULL SCORECARDS: https://cricheroes.com/tournament/1188839/erc-harmony-league-t10-tapeball-tournament/matches/past-matches?type=m

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In a thrilling conclusion to the MVP Sports Girls U-11 Pee Wee Football Championship, Waramuri emerged victorious in a penalty shootout against defending champions Marian Academy after the match ended in a draw.

Waramuri’s goalkeeper, Atti Harris, was the standout performer, saving three penalties.

Her teammates scored all three of their attempts, securing a 3-0 win on penalties.

The championship win earned the Region One team $100,000 for a school project, while Marian Academy received $75,000.

In the third-place playoff, St. John the Baptist defeated Potaro 2-0, with Jaziah Rodrigues scoring one of the goals.

St. John the Baptist was awarded $50,000, while Potaro received $25,000.

In other matches, West Ruimveldt claimed fifth place with a 3-0 victory over Stella Maris, thanks to a hat-trick from Ariel Farley. Smith Memorial edged out Genesis 1-0 in the 7-8 playoff.

Individual awards included Best Goalkeeper for Atti Harris, Most Valuable Player for Hailey Haberkorn from Marian Academy, and Highest Goal Scorer for Ariel Farley, who netted 18 goals throughout the tournament.

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Lewis Hamilton said he was happy his time with Mercedes “finished on a high” after what he described as “a really turbulent year”.

The seven-time champion brought to an end his 12 years with Mercedes with a fourth-place finish after starting 16th on the grid in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

“It has been probably the longest year of my life, knowing from the beginning I was leaving,” Hamilton said.

“It’s like a relationship that you’ve told whoever the counterpart is you’re leaving but you’re living together for a year. Lots of ups and downs but we finished on a high today.”

Hamilton, 39, leaves Mercedes for Ferrari in 2025 after 12 years with Mercedes that was both the longest and most successful team-driver combination in F1 history.

He passed team-mate George Russell on the final lap to clinch fourth place and then celebrated by doing doughnuts on the pit straight, before climbing out of his car, crouching beside it and spending some moments with his thoughts.

“Each moment I have known it was one of the last and it has been really clear and really hard to let go,” Hamilton said.

“When I stopped the car. I wanted to embrace the moment. Representing Mercedes has been the greatest moment of my life. Just giving thanks, my own spirit for not giving up, everyone the power to have built that car. I am proud of everyone.”

Hamilton has won two races in 2024 – his first victories since the 2021 campaign in which he controversially lost out on a record eighth drivers’ title at the final race of the season.

But he has also had difficult weekends, including in Qatar a week before Abu Dhabi, when he finished 12th.

Lewis Hamilton kneeled by his car for a few moments after he got out of a Mercedes for the final time

He added: “We’ve definitely had ups and downs but what’s come through is there has been real love.

“The board members who have stood by and supported me all these years, who were upset at the beginning, but today were saying you will always be part of the family. It just shows there is a lot of love between us.” (BBC)

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Sherfane Rutherford’s maiden ODI century helped West Indies break their 11-match losing streak against Bangladesh with a five-wicket win in St Kitts.

The home side hunted down a target of 295 to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series, with Rutherford’s 80-ball 113 comprehensively overturning a slow start to the chase.

West Indies, who had at one point needed 161 off 114 balls, reached their target with 14 balls remaining.

Rutherford, who was struck twice on his helmet during his innings, reached his century when Bangladesh conceded six runs via overthrows in the 47th over.

He celebrated the milestone with consecutive sixes off Soumya Sarkar, over long-off and midwicket.

Then he squeezed one to short third man where Nahid Rana completed a catch, but by then West Indies only needed seven more.

Rutherford struck seven fours and eight sixes as he went from 19 off 29 balls in the 32nd over to score a further 94 runs in 51 balls.

He now has five consecutive 50-plus scores in ODIs, becoming the fourth West Indian after Gordon Greenidge, Chris Gayle and Shai Hope, who have six in a row each, to achieve this feat.

Rutherford added 99 runs for the fourth wicket with captain Hope who contributed an 88-ball 86 after coming in at 27 for 2.

Then Rutherford and Justin Greaves blasted 95 runs off just 57 balls for the fifth wicket. Greaves scored the winning runs and finished on an unbeaten 41 off 31 balls with five fours.

Shai Hope and Sherfane Rutherford added 99 runs for the fourth wicket•Dec 08, 2024•Randy Brooks

West Indies were in trouble for much of the first half of their chase. They lost both Brandon King and Evin Lewis in the first powerplay and couldn’t get going against Bangladesh’s fast-bowling trio.

Tanzim Hasan Sakib trapped King lbw for 9 off 17 when he tried to pull one that wasn’t short enough, and Nahid Rana struck Lewis’ back pad in front of the stumps with a 148.9 kph delivery in the next over.

It was then up to Hope and Keacy Carty to consolidate.

They added 67 runs in the following 13.3 overs for the third wicket, with Carty scoring a cautious 21 off 37 balls.

Rishad Hossain’s short ball had him caught at short midwicket in a disappointing dismissal for the in-form West Indies batter.

Bangladesh’s innings had also revolved around three significant partnerships. They got off to a quick start before Soumya Sarkar fell in the fifth over.

Soumya, fresh from becoming the GSL’s Player of the Tournament, struck Alzarri Joseph for consecutive fours before falling caught behind later in the same over.

Litton Das followed him shortly afterwards, getting caught behind to Romario Shepherd.

Tanzid Hasan, however had already struck a straight six and three fours. He added 79 runs for the third wicket captain Mehidy, who survived two chances, with Carty dropping him on 1 and 31.

Mehidy rode his luck, top scoring with 74. Tanzid looked by far the more confident of the two, hitting two more sixes over long-off and finding boundaries all around the wicket.

Tanzid, however, fell against the run of play in the 24th over when Alzarri Joseph had him caught at point.

He made a run-a-ball 60, walking off disappointed at missing out on a bigger score.

Mehidy meanwhile continued to rotate the strike with the returning Afif Hossain.

The fourth-wicket pair added 54 before Shepherd got Afif caught on the leg-side boundary.

Mehidy eventually made 74 off 101 balls, hitting six fours and a superb whipped six over fine-leg off Jayden Seales.

Romario Shepherd had Litton Das nicking off•Dec 08, 2024•Randy Brooks

He fell to the same bowler in the 38th over, skying to extra cover where Rutherford took the catch.

Mehidy had laid the perfect foundation for Jaker Ali and Mahmudullah, who added 96 runs for the sixth wicket, 84 of which came in the last ten overs.

Mahmudullah smashed three sixes on the leg side, and as many fours, in his unbeaten 50 off 44 balls.

Jaker also struck three sixes, one of them off Joseph landing outside the stadium’s premises.

He made 48 off 40 balls, falling off the penultimate ball of the innings to Shepherd, who finished with three wickets.

Jaker and Mahmudullah struck all their six sixes in the last 6.3 overs of Bangladesh’s innings. (ESPNcricinfo) 

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Lando Norris secured McLaren’s first Formula 1 constructors’ championship for 26 years with victory in the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Norris led from start to finish and his fourth win of the season was enough to seal the championship by 14 points, despite Ferrari finishing second and third with Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc.

Leclerc’s brilliant drive after starting 19th on the grid kept the tension high – had anything happened to Norris’ car, Ferrari would have clinched the title.

Lewis Hamilton took fourth place in his final race for Mercedes, passing team-mate George Russell around the outside of Turn Nine with six corners of the race to go.

Hamilton did doughnuts on the pit straight after crossing the line and then took a few moments with his car, collecting his thoughts, before congratulating Norris and McLaren F1 boss Zak Brown and consoling Sainz and Leclerc.

The anxiety for McLaren started at the first corner when Norris’ team-mate Oscar Piastri, who had qualified second to the Briton, was tapped into a spin by Red Bull’s Max Verstappen.

The world champion was given a 10-second penalty for causing the incident.

That put Piastri to the back of the field and left McLaren’s hopes hanging on Norris.

Leclerc increased McLaren’s nerves with a stunning first lap, in which he gained a remarkable 11 places, including passing five cars in one go approaching the chicane at Turns Six and Seven.

Leclerc’s climb continued, as he passed the Haas drivers Kevin Magnussen and Nico Hulkenberg and Fernando Alonso’s Aston Martin, and then after his pit stop on lap 20 Pierre Gasly’s Alpine. He took third when the Mercedes of Russell and Hamilton and Verstappen pitted out of his way.

Sitting in third behind Norris and Sainz in the final 15 laps, Leclerc asked if “like this we lose the constructors’” and was told, yes, but the race was not over.

But Norris and McLaren had everything under control and he crossed the line six seconds ahead of Sainz to end a long and painful period without a title.

The win also ensured that Norris finished second in the drivers’ championship, 18 points ahead of Leclerc and 63 behind Verstappen. (BBC)

 

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