Ghana Medical Help (GMH) volunteer Stefano Picone works in the healthcare industry and is part of a start-up company that develops advanced imaging technologies used to treat people with serious heart conditions.  He also recognizes that the most basic of medical equipment and services can have a profound impact on the lives of many. 

“Being involved in the healthcare industry gives me a great sense of purpose and meaning, and I am always looking for opportunities to make an impact,” said Picone. “I feel the work being done by GMH is greatly improving the quality of healthcare for the two million people who live in northern Ghana.”

When asked about his experience as a GMH volunteer, Picone was eager to talk about having packed equipment for shipment to Ghana.  

“There are two things I immediately noticed when packing,” said Picone. “First, there were a lot of supplies!  Second, and perhaps most important, was that it was the type of supplies that you would find in the office of any family doctor in Canada.”

“It was digital thermometers and otoscopes and stethoscopes and other things that we completely take for granted, but are necessary to deliver basic healthcare,” he said. “In northern Ghana, this makes a massive difference for the patients and hospitals that would otherwise go without.”

Picone is also quick to praise the efforts of the GMH team.  

“I have spent a good chunk of my career working with startups, and I know how difficult it is to start something from scratch, whether it is a business or charity,” he said.

“I have a lot of respect for Kelly Hadfield and the whole team.  They have been incredibly resourceful and hardworking.  They are also very good at understanding of the needs of the healthcare system in northern Ghana and strive to deliver supplies and programs that best meet those needs.”

Picone encourages other people who want to make a difference in global healthcare to get involved with GMH.  “Every GMH volunteer brings a different skill set, and every contribution matters.  I try to contribute any way that I can whether that is by packing equipment, attending fundraisers or providing advice on hiring a part-time accountant.  I know my efforts are appreciated and I am fortunate to be part of the cause.”

“Every GMH volunteer brings a different skill set – and every contribution matters,” he said. “I try to contribute any way that I can whether that is by packing equipment, attending fundraisers or providing advice on hiring a part-time accountant.  I know my efforts are appreciated and I am fortunate to be part of the cause.”