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Georgetown, Guyana (Credible Sources) The family of Ms. D. Gilkes, who passed away on November 30, 2024, is expressing outrage and heartbreak over the handling of her remains at a government-operated mortuary facility in Bartica, Region 7. A series of administrative failures and inadequate infrastructure have left the grieving relatives frustrated and saddled with financial burdens, with no accountability from regional officials.
After Ms. Gilkes was pronounced dead at the Bartica Hospital, her family was informed that the hospital’s mortuary was not operational. They were instructed to transfer the body to a facility at 7th Avenue. Despite following these directions, the family was met with a cascade of logistical and administrative failures.
Upon trying to access the facility, they were informed that no key could be found to unlock the mortuary. This continued for several days until the key was eventually located on the night of December 4. By this time, Ms. Gilkes’ body had already begun decomposing to such an extent that it was difficult to remove her remains from the refrigerator.
Adding to the family’s anguish, it is alleged that none of the Regional Health Officer (RHO), the Regional Executive Officer (REO), or the Medical Superintendent (MS) took responsibility for the situation. Attempts to secure assistance were met with a “blame game,” with officials deflecting responsibility. The family was forced to hire an expert from Georgetown to address the condition of the body and the malfunctioning refrigerator.
Even after these interventions, the ordeal continued. When the family returned to check on Ms. Gilkes’ body on Friday, they discovered that the refrigeration unit had been turned off. Hospital staff later informed them that the regional electrician had switched on three additional units the day prior, but the units were not operational due to a lack of proper maintenance.
Compounding the tragedy, the facility lacked basic infrastructure and services. There was no running water, no attendant, no security, and inadequate drainage. The family had to shoulder additional costs to clean the facility, bring water for use, and ensure proper care for Ms. Gilkes’ remains. Despite their efforts and the significant financial strain, they are still grappling with the emotional trauma of the ordeal and the inability to provide their loved one with a dignified send-off.
The family has received no communication or support from any regional officials, who they say have failed to acknowledge their plight or provide assistance throughout the ordeal. They have described the situation as an injustice and an example of the systemic neglect plaguing public facilities in the region.
