In sickness and in health

Bound by more than four decades of marriage, Beverly and Dolman Rodney exemplify resilience, love, and devotion in the face of life’s challenges. Their journey, marked by both joy and hardship, has been a testament to their wedding vows to stand by each other “in sickness and in health”.

Over recent years, Mr Rodney has faced significant health challenges, including injuries that have left him unable to work and requiring ongoing care. Through it all, Mrs Rodney has stood unwaveringly by his side as a compassionate caregiver and devoted partner. Recently, their inspiring story was celebrated when Malta, the caregiver brand under the Red Stripe portfolio, partnered with the National Council for Senior Citizens (NCSC) to honour the couple. In the spirit of giving, Malta surprised the Rodneys with a thoughtfully curated care package and supermarket vouchers, recognising their strength, faith, and enduring love.

"We got married in 1983 after meeting at church, and let me tell you, I made him work six years before I said yes to him," 71-year-old Mrs Rodney boasted with a smirk plastered on her face.

"We have had some really good memories together, sticking by each other's side, but for a while now, we have been going through a series of trials. As Christians, we believe God allows them for his reason and purpose."

Seventy-five-year-old Mr Rodney was a seasoned salesman who transitioned from working for bakeries to building his own clientèle, driven by a desire to align his career with his Seventh-day Adventist beliefs. Meanwhile, his wife devoted herself to teaching at a basic school. Together, they lived a humble life, touching the hearts of others with every thought and gesture. Yet, ironically, disaster would strike during their moments of most extraordinary kindness.

"The first incident occurred in 2021, shortly after our anniversary when [Mr] Rodney was helping out at the church on Labour Day. Sadly, he fell from a ladder and broke both his arms. It was a significant setback for us, as he could no longer work, and I had to take on the role of sole caregiver," Mrs Rodney shared, her voice steady yet surprisingly upbeat.

Without children of their own due to the potential medical risks for Mrs Rodney, the couple leaned on each other for strength, navigating the aftermath of the first major accident together. Supported by their church family, who helped cover Mr Rodney's medical expenses, they found solace in their unity.

"Despite everything, God has seen us through, sending so many people into our lives to bless and support us. With both hands broken, it really disrupted our lives, but he healed, and somehow, it all worked out," she reflected.

On Valentine's Day of this year, as the couple was planning to visit members of their community to offer support, another tragedy struck.

"We were planning to stop by their home to check in and identify ways we could assist – doing our caregiving," Mrs Rodney shared. "He went out to pick up a few things not too far from home, while I stayed in to catch up on some chores. A young man who was living with us at the time, said he was trying to reach him so I should give him a call. I borrowed my sister's phone and, when I called, a woman answered and told me there had been an accident on Olympic Way."

Rushing to the scene, Mrs Rodney found no sign of her husband, but her instincts kicked in. She quickly hopped into a cab and headed for the hospital. Upon arrival, the nurses confirmed he was there. As she approached his bed, her emotions were indescribable. His body was covered in blood, but he managed to tell her he had been hit by a motorcyclist before losing consciousness.

“For over two weeks, he remained unresponsive. Every morning, I would slowly approach his bed, holding my breath until I saw the oxygen, and only then could I eagerly rush to his side. I prayed with him every day, talking to him as if he could hear me.”

Then one day, a nurse stopped her and said, “It's a miracle!” To everyone's astonishment, Mr Rodney sat up and began to sing.

The accident left him with several severe injuries including a broken left shoulder, ribs, pelvis, a fractured right thumb, and brain damage. However, through it all, their faith and love carried them through the darkest times.

“Despite the lengthy recovery, I remain grateful,” says Mrs Rodney. “We've depleted our resources, but God has been good to us. So many kind-hearted people show up at the perfect time—just like Malta did today with this wonderful care package.”

Her faith has been tested, but she credits it as the pillar that has kept her strong, along with the kindness of others.

With new challenges, including eye issues and an ear infection, Mrs Rodney jokes, “I'm now KPH-friendly,” a light-hearted reference to their many hospital visits.

Though Mr Rodney has his struggles, his greatest concern is for his wife whenever she's not by his side.

“He doesn't want me out of his sight for even a minute!' Mrs. Rodney chuckles. “After the accident, he's always asking how long I'll be gone, have our neighbours give me a call to check in or wait by the gate, making sure I get home safely.”

As they looked forward to Christmas surrounded by family – siblings, nieces, and nephews – Mrs Rodney continued her devotion to her husband's well-being. She keeps his mind sharp with small tasks like washing dishes, cleaning his shoes, and perfecting his tie for church. Each moment spent in care is a testament to her unfailing love and dedication.