HEAL Africa

Health + Education + Action + Leadership

HEAL Africa operates in Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo, a region where war has claimed over five million lives since 1998. Goma has been described as the "worst humanitarian disaster since World War II" by the International Rescue Committee.

HEAL Africa’s medical, social and economic initiatives foster peace and development.

Queensland X-Ray, together with Sonic Healthcare, has made a commitment to support the people of eastern Congo by equipping, training and providing ongoing logistical support to HEAL Africa’s hospital.

The hospital has become an internationally funded sanctuary which provides a safe place for many victims of the war and has been combating poverty and promoting community cohesion over the past 14 years.

Queensland X-Ray Radiologist Dr Murray Thorn and Sonographer/Radiographer Sue Reid have dedicated personal leave and finances to the project and people of the region for the last four years.

In 2009, Dr Thorn was unable to visit Goma due to his daughter’s wedding, but Sue returned and said it was like returning to a second home. She said one of the largest changes this year was the building of the two storey lab and outpatient complex, to which Sonic Healthcare has donated equipment and resources. "It is coming along in leaps and bounds, and is greatly advancing the radiology department of the hospital, " Sue said.

During this visit, Sue also learned that a local Radiographer, whom she and Dr Thorn had privately funded to travel to Rwanda and undergo further training, had left the hospital and was now assisting other radiology clinics in Goma. “While it was sad not to see him on this visit”, “it was gratifying to know he’s out there using his training to help those elsewhere”.

There is now a new Radiographer in training and Sue says it is extremely rewarding to see the cycle of educating local Radiographers commence and hopefully, continue.

“It really hit me this year”, Sue said. “I mean, it hits me every year but this time, I really felt extremely privileged to be making a difference and seeing so many really good friends again.

” When asked if she would return again she was surprised that the question even needed asking. “Of course ! I’m working Fridays right now just so I can go again next year.”

This year, Sue and the Sunnybank Women's Hospital staff have raised $800 for HEAL Africa, through an art auction.