A Heartfelt Journey to Save Young Lives in Greece
Incubator donation by the Rex Maughan Forever Giving Foundation
In the heart of Greece, a story of compassion and hope has unfolded. The Rex Maughan Forever Giving Foundation recently raised funds for a cause that touches the most delicate aspects of life: the well-being of newborns in need of critical care. This journey of generosity was born from the financial crisis that shook Greece in 2008, leaving hospitals faced with challenges in acquiring new life-saving medical equipment.
One such hospital located in the suburbs of Athens, the Attikon General University Hospital, has been using incubators for premature and sick babies that were made two decades ago. Until recently, the outdated incubators were still used at the hospital, yet advancements in technology and aging equipment requires that these machines be replaced every 20 years.
With a commitment to making a difference in the lives of children, Forever Giving teamed up with Lifeline Hellas to help them in their goal of providing eight new incubators to Attikon General by raising funds to donate one incubator. This humanitarian organization, founded by Princess Katherine Karađorđević of Serbia, focuses its efforts on Greece, notably by providing medical equipment to children's hospitals and supporting children’s institutions.
According to Lifeline, over the next 20 years, each incubator is expected to help around 1,000 newborns. These crucial machines provide a safe, controlled environment — regulating temperature, humidity and light — for babies that are born prematurely or with complications and need extra care. In addition, incubators keep bacteria away and help doctors monitor the heart rate and vitals. The technological developments of a new incubator increase the survival rate for those age newborn to 4.5 months, especially compared to an outdated incubator.
The project, proposed by Forever Living Products Greece/Cyprus, kicked off in early 2023 with an enthusiastic commitment to fundraise locally as well as globally. The goal was clear: to replace an aging incubator and offer a lifeline to the tiniest members of society. The dedicated team organized various events throughout the year, capturing the essence of giving with creativity and joy.
One such event, a Success Day, featured a unique “smoothie bike” that attendees could ride to power a blender, creating their own aloe smoothies. For five euros, participants could ride the bike, with donations benefiting the cause. Additionally, custom hand-painted hats and an ongoing raffle contributed to the fundraising efforts.
Smoothie bike fundraiser hosted by Forever Living Products Greece/Cyprus
The culmination of these was celebrated at the end of 2023, as the new incubator was ceremoniously installed at Attikon General University Hospital with Princess Katherine in attendance.
In the words of Princess Katherine, “Children are the future, and it is our highest duty to support them.”
Princess Katherine at the incubator installation ceremony
This is a sentiment that underscores the mission of Forever Giving and its efforts to positively impact the lives of children.
“All of us are heartened to be able to make a difference for fragile young lives in Greece,” says Forever Giving President Gregg Maughan. “We look forward to witnessing the positive impact as these new incubators not only save lives today but contribute to a healthier, stronger future for the children of Greece. Forever Giving extends our deepest gratitude to everyone who has been part of this extraordinary journey.”