Dear Esteemed Leaders of the Academy for International Business Officials, MOFCOM,
I am writing to extend my heartfelt gratitude for the exceptional support and care I received during my recent illness. I have been deeply touched by the immediate, efficient, and human-centered response.
Ibrahim Kandeh is hospitalized for medical treatment at the Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University in Wuxi. [Photo provided to en.wuxi.gov.cn]
A few weeks ago, I suffered a sudden and severe heart attack and life-threatening situation that left me in immense fear and uncertainty. At this most critical moment, the Freshwater Fisheries Research Center of the Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences (Wuxi Fisheries College of Nanjing Agricultural University) acted without delay. The administration of campus promptly coordinated the best medical facilities and every necessary resource, and ensured I received emergency care at once. They also invited the best cardiologists in Wuxi, secured the most effective medications, and formulated a comprehensive and professional treatment plan that was crafted with utmost care and expertise. It is no exaggeration to say that their swift and decisive actions granted me a second chance at life.
Throughout my hospitalization, I was continuously touched by the kindness, compassion and solidarity passed down to me. Leaders and teachers from the center took time to visit me, offering not just words of encouragement but also the warmth and reassurance of family. During the most critical period in the ICU, the center’s administration organized a 24-hour rotation to ensure someone was always there to support my care. Ms. Betty, the program coordinator, and the department chief maintained real-time communication with the hospital and medical team, providing the strongest possible logistical supports. Their dedication was a steadfast anchor in my stormiest hours.
I later learned that my situation drew high-level attention and concern from several institutions, including the Academy for International Business Officials of MOFCOM, Nanjing Agricultural University, the Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, and the relevant municipal departments of Wuxi Government. In particular, the leaders of the Academy for International Business Officials of MOFCOM, not only provided crucial guidance in coordinating medical resources but also established a 24-hour liaison mechanism with the Center (the College).
This multi-level, seamless and efficient collaboration created the conditions for efficient treatment and rapid recovery, leaving me and my family endlessly moving and appreciative.
Ibrahim Kandeh presents a banner to the medical team at the Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University in Wuxi as a token of his gratitude. [Photo provided to en.wuxi.gov.cn]
In my moments of vulnerability, I found strength in your supports. I felt the genuine care of a family and experienced the profound friendship that China extends to the people of Sierra Leone, and other developing countries. This was humanity at its most sincere and noble which embodies the spirit of a community with a shared future for mankind.
This experience has deeply strengthened my belief in the bond between our peoples. I am more committed than ever to contributing to the fishery cooperation between China and Sierra Leone, and to working tirelessly to enhance the friendship and exchange between our two nations. I will carry this gratitude with me always and strive to be a bridge of partnership and mutual understanding.
Please accept my heartfelt thanks to all of you once again. You have shown me the true spirit of China: compassionate, organized, and tirelessly dedicated to others. Your collective compassion and camaraderie will remain a cherished memory.
May the friendship between China and Sierra Leone endure forever!
With deepest respect and sincere appreciation again.
Ibrahim Kandeh
Handwritten letter of appreciation by Ibrahim Kandeh. [Photo provided to en.wuxi.gov.cn]
Ibrahim Kandeh, from Sierra Leone, is a participant in a Chinese government-sponsored foreign aid training program – the Fisheries Master's Program.
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