Author to help man crippled by bullet pen his story

The article, ‘Man crippled by gunman’s bullet pens his story’, published in The Gleaner on September 26, stirred emotions among readers locally and overseas.

“This story is really a blessing. The feedback has been overwhelming. Nuff people reach out to me, even a lady said that for more than 20 years she had something to do and never did it and now she’s 40; and when she read me story, she said she affi get to it. Some people that call me say me make them cry, and that make all me waan cry,” said Kevin Robinson, who expressed gratitude for the feedback.

When The Gleaner first spoke with Robinson, he shared his desire to complete his book, True Pain – A real-life story, chronicling his life journey. “Me reach a far way in the book, but me would like somebody to help me finish it,” he said.

Author and publisher Leroy Hutchinson of O.Y.R. Books and Publishing has answered the call, vowing to assist Robinson with his book.

“I had the chance to watch Kevin’s interview via The Gleaner’s Instagram page. I will never forget his opening statement, ‘Gunmen destroyed my life before I even got a chance to dream what I would like to become’, and it grabbed my attention.”

Though saddened by Robinson’s reality, Huchinson said he was also encouraged by his drive and dream. “I asked myself, ‘How can I contribute to this dream of his?’ As I continued to watch the clip, I heard him speaking of a book which he was working on, expressing that he needed someone to help him to finish this book. I realised that Kevin had found a new dream amid the misfortunes in his life. As the popular Jamaican proverb says, ‘Wah nuh dead, no dash weh.’ “

O.Y.R Books and Publishing has produced literature, including The Youth Leader in You -- 3 Essential Steps to Win at Leading Youth by Leroy Hutchinson, and Lessons From a Place of Pain – An Account of God’s Healing Power and Restoration After a Great Loss by Sophia Lee-Shue-Palmer.

Hutchinson and his wife, who is also an author, plan to assist Robinson with completing and editing his manuscript. According to Hutchinson, the team will also “design a book cover that aptly depicts the truth of his story” and host a virtual book launch.

Electronic copies of the book will also be made available on Amazon and other platforms.

“I believe Kevin still has a purpose, or otherwise God would have allowed the bullets to take his life,” said Hutchinson.

An enthused Robinson was elated at the news. “Me feel good, man! Oh gosh, me excited ‘cause nuff people asking ‘bout the book. Even a man say the youth in the ghetto need to read this book.”

Itana Henry, Robinson’s friend, said The Gleaner’s highlight of Robinson’s story paved the way for much-needed help. “I have been trying to get help for Kevin for the past six years but it has been stagnant, so I’m thankful. This makes it easier.” Henry has since started a GoFundMe account to assist Kevin.

Persons wishing to donate to Kevin may do so at https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-kevin-restore-dreams.