Bicycle Ride To Honour Jake Vella Before Funeral

Sep 4 2024

Cyclists have been invited to join a final farewell ride in honour of 15-year-old Jake Vella, ahead of his funeral on Saturday.

Vella, a dedicated triathlete, faced a rare neurological condition called ROHHAD (Rapid-onset Obesity with Hypothalamic Dysfunction, Hypoventilation, and Autonomic Dysregulation), yet he continued to champion charitable causes, organising events to support abandoned animals and raise awareness.

The farewell ride will begin at 8:30 a.m. at Mater Dei Hospital, where Vella spent his final months, and conclude at Birżebbuġa Parish Church, where his funeral will be held at 10:30 a.m.

The Malta Mountain Bike Association shared details of the event, urging participants to “do one last bike ride for beloved Jake.”

Traffic enforcement officers are set to guide the procession. Vella’s parents, who announced his funeral arrangements on social media, revealed that his body will be cremated.

Rest in peace Jake.

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Healthcare Workers Ordered To Double-Check Patient Identities

Sep 3 2024

Healthcare workers have been instructed to double-check patients’ identities when providing services, seemingly in response to recent identity fraud allegations.

A letter passed around amongst staff in all government healthcare institutions, seen by Times of Malta, instructed healthcare workers to confirm patients’ identities by requesting their ID number, full name, and date of birth.

The letter also advises verifying demographic information such as address, mobile number, and telephone number. Additionally, patients should be asked to present their ID card, residence permit, passport, or driving license.

The letter was issued just weeks after numerous individuals reported finding upcoming appointments for serious tests and surgeries in their medical files that they did not require, along with records of hospital admissions they never experienced and medications prescribed for illnesses they never had.

In one case, a man who went for a check-up at a public healthcare clinic in June was shocked to discover that his medical records listed him as having died in March.

According to Times of Malta, the letter also instructed healthcare workers to cross-verify health records, with the letter reportedly stating “Before accessing or updating any health records confirm that the identifiers in the patient’s health records match the details provided by the patients or their authorised representative. This applies to every point of contact, including, but not limited to registration, consultation, test ordering, diagnostics and treatment,”

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International Duo ‘Mr. Belt & Wezol’ Close District Fridays with a Bang

Sep 3 2024

District’s summer season came to a spectacular close last Friday at Club Phoenix, Gianpula Village, with an unforgettable performance by the viral Dutch DJ duo, Mr. Belt & Wezol. The night was everything d_fans hoped for and more, as the duo brought their high-energy vibes and infectious beats to the stage.

Mr. Belt & Wezol, known for their chart-topping hits like “It’s Not Right But It’s Okay,” “Homeless,” and “I Feel Love,” did not disappoint. Perfectly blending house music bangers whilst showcasing their innovative sound, the duo brought a vibe to Club Phoenix which was unmatched.

The event also featured impressive performances from supporting acts DAAN, RIOLO, GIGI, LPM, HUSKO & JUPO, who all played a part in the night’s legendary closing.

With a perfect send-off to the summer season at district, we can only wait to see what d_gang has up their sleeves next.

#MaltaDaily

World’s Second Tallest Man Needs Bigger Bed At Paralympics

Sep 3 2024

Morteza Mehrzadselakjani, the tallest Paralympian in history at 2.46 meters (8 feet 1 inch), faced challenges at the Paris 2024 Games due to the lack of a bed that could accommodate his height.

Initially, Mehrzad, a key player on Iran’s dominant men’s sitting volleyball team, had to sleep on the floor. His height, resulting from acromegaly—a condition causing excess growth hormone—requires special accommodations.

In Tokyo, a custom bed was provided, but no such provision was made in Paris.

Iran’s head coach, Hadi Rezaeigarkani, noted that despite the discomfort, Mehrzad remained focused on his goal of winning another gold medal. “It doesn’t matter to him whether he sleeps on the floor or lacks food; he’s determined to be a champion,” Rezaeigarkani told Olympics.com.

After news of his situation emerged, Paralympics organizers acted quickly to resolve the issue. The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) informed CNN that additional bed extensions have been provided, ensuring Mehrzad’s comfort.

Mehrzad’s towering presence on the court is crucial to Iran’s sitting volleyball success, contributing to their seven gold medals in nine Paralympic Games since 1988. Despite his physical challenges, Mehrzad remains a formidable force in the sport.

#MaltaDaily