South Africa's ill 'left to die' due to lack of medical workers

From Global development | The Guardian Wed Nov 28 2012, 00:01:29

A lack of healthcare workers in South Africa means some people are not getting the treatment they need

The putrid air clouds the dingy room where Hilary Motsiri lies groaning at the slightest touch. The two homecare workers attempt to soothe her wound, but only half of her breast remains as a festering tumour has eroded the flesh.

"We can't even offer her painkillers. She needs to go to the clinic to get them, but she can't move from the bed," explains carer Anna Diale. The carers do all they can with their limited supplies, but warm salt water and an adhesive dressing do nothing to assuage her suffering.

"I am scared because I have had the pain since January and it is getting worse. My granddaughter is young, she has HIV and I don't want to leave her," says Hilary.

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