Rotary clubs spread Christmas cheer

A collaborative Rotary Club effort brought much-needed Christmas cheer to the Accident and Emergency Unit of the University Hospital of the West Indies (UHWI) in Mona, St Andrew, last Friday, with the donation of six gurneys (stretchers).

The gurneys, valued at US$40,000, were a gift of the Rotary clubs of St Andrew North; Cayman Sunrise in the Cayman Islands; and Riverview in Orlando, Florida.

Dr Jean Williams-Johnson, medical director at the Accident and Emergency Unit, said the gift was much appreciated and would assist in making the provision of critical health care to patients.

"There have indeed been occasions in the recent past when we have been challenged to care for patients as there were not enough open stretchers. So, as you can imagine, we are indeed happy and overjoyed with this gift," she said. "We are grateful."

Patrick Gillings, past president of the Rotary Club of St Andrew North, who spearheaded the project, said he was made aware of the hospital's need during a conversation with Williams-Johnson. He said he then decided to commit to undertaking the venture.

"It has been four years in coming and we are making good on that promise," said Gillings in his address to the gathering, which included Rotarians and hospital staffers.

The St Andrew North past president explained the delay was due to an outstanding project his club had committed to in providing an ambulance to the Bustamante Hospital for Children in St Andrew.

"And, that project was delivered on two years ago," he said. "And now, we've completed another."

Gillings used the opportunity to thank the overseas-based Rotary clubs for their support in making the project a reality.

Pleased to participate

Michael Levitt, president of the Rotary Club of Grand Cayman Sunrise, said he was pleased to be part of the project.

"Congratulations to the hospital," Levitt said. "On the one hand, I am really pleased that you have the gurneys, but I hope you don't have to use them too often."

He then wished Jamaicans a safe holiday.

Fabian 'Bobby' Young, past assistant district governor, read a message from Ed Odom, past district governor of Riverview club in Orlando, who said he regretted his unavoidable absence but was pleased to be associated with the project.

"I am sure you will all agree that today's donation represents an achievement of the Rotary clubs' mandate in improving the life in its community," Williams-Johnson added.