IN AN age where volunteerism is on the decline, it is heartening that a corporate partnership between a tourist resort, a team of dedicated doctors, and a noted pharmaceutical company can bring joy to the lives of poor disadvantaged individuals.
It was in this vein of volunteerism that over 100 persons benefited from a free health clinic organised recently by Sandals Dunn's River and the St. Ann Senior Citizens Association for residents living in Limehall and neighbouring communities.
FREE MEDICATION
From as early as 9:00 a.m., residents flocked to the community centre that was buzzing with a slew of activities that included medical check-ups by doctors Carla Hoo, Narasimha Yerreddu and Andrew Bogle. The Sandals Dunn's River resort nurse Quida Dixon conducted blood pressure checks and spoke to the adults and children on topics such as healthy lifestyles, while blood sugar checks were performed by Sandals public relations manager Lyndsay Isaacs.
The highlight of the clinic was the distribution of free medication by Christopher Lee, a Lasmed medical representative. Forty-five-year-old Hazel Lewis, a mother of five, expressed how much she appreciated everyone who was giving a helping hand to the community.
GRATEFUL
"It helps to keep poor people who can't afford to go to the doctor to get free check up." Sandals Dunn's River, the Lasmed company, as well as a volunteer team of doctors have consolidated their resources, talents and services to be committed to continue providing free monthly health care services for communities in St. Ann.
"I thank God for sending these people to help us because we do not have the money, and I am also happy that they could give us free medicine," said Joyce Murphy, a resident of Lime Hall.
