Paz Echad will be partnering with Karing Hearts Cardiology and cardiac pacemaker suppliers to help make a difference for those who have Chagas disease in Bolivia.

Dr. Schoondyke, from Karing Hearts Cardiology, will be traveling to Bolivia to implant pacemakers with patients who have cardiac complications due to Chagas disease. Trypansosoma cruzi is the parasite that is transmitted from the Kissing Bug that causes Chagas disease. About 6 to 7 million people worldwide are estimated to be infected with Chagas disease. In Bolivia there are 1.8 million people infected with the disease, the highest rates in the world. Another 3.7 million are at risk for being infected.

Cardiomyopathy can occur as a result of Chagas disease. Cardiomyopathy is when the heart enlarges and cannot pump blood effectively throughout the body. Many Bolivians need help due to this disease but cannot afford to get the help that they need.

In our efforts to help give care to these people we would like to raise money to accommodate the costs of procedure rooms and medical supplies that will be needed. Help us make a difference in the Bolivian community.