THE EDITOR, Sir:THE SIR John Golding Rehabilitation Centre (formerly Mona Rehab) provides a haven for persons with acute and chronic nuerological disorders or impairments.
It is the only one of its kind in the island that caters for rehabilitation of persons with spinal cord injuries, the cornerstone of the centre being physical and occupational therapies.
Occupational therapy is now virtually non-existent and physical therapy has been limited to a corner of an already spatially challenged ward.
Both departments were completed devastated by Hurricane Ivan, over one year ago. The roof has since been repaired (an apparently mammoth task as it took several months, contrary to the six weeks promised by the Office of National Reconstruction [ONR]) after much fanfare and obvious pride by the Government.
The roof has been repaired, but still both departments remain closed as interior renovation and replacement of damaged equipment have not been done.
PATIENT DIED
The displacement of therapeutic services has left over a hundred chronically impaired persons without much needed physical therapy.
Minister John Junor, I am imploring you, one of our patients has already died and if the centre is not restored, I anticipate that others will.
Disability is no respecter of colour, class or creed. It can happen to you or me, it can be as simple as slipping on your bathroom rug.
Our compassion as a society is reflected in how we treat our most vulnerable. Jamaica has been notorious in our blatant disregard for persons with disabilities.
We marginalise these individuals to their homes as few are allowed to participate actively in society, as our society lacks basic amenities such as ramps, toilet facilities, wheelchair access, even in public places and schools.
The Sir John Golding Centre was conceptualised out of compassion, but through years of neglect and mismanagement, it has deteriorated.
The staff has remained resilient and has strived to provide the best quality of care given the deplorable conditions under which they are forced to work.
WHERE ARE THE FUNDS?
Government, it is now your time to show some compassion. The private sector has already donated millions to hurricane relief, specifically for the centre and still the departments remain closed.
Where are all the funds ONR and why must everything with the Government take years when poor, dependent persons are involved?
Please have some compassion. The anguish of our displaced patients is beckoning. Please help them.
I am, etc.,
ANTOINETTE HAYNES
ash_pt2002@yahoo.com
Kingston
Via Go-Jamaica
