Nurse practitioner gives back to health sector

RETURNING RESIDENT Elaine Allen-Bradley, who worked as a nurse practitioner in England for 40 years, continues to contribute to the health sector in Jamaica.

On National Heroes Day, October 21, Allen-Bradley will be conferred with the Badge of Honour for Meritorious Service for her contribution in the field of health in Negril, Westmoreland, at the annual National Honours and Awards ceremony to be held at King’s House.

Born in St Elizabeth and later raised in St James, Allen-Bradley’s early life was marked by resilience and a drive to succeed.

After attending the now-defunct Branch Texas High School in the parish, she earned a coveted Jamaica Independence Scholarship in 1962, a pivotal moment that set her on a path of lifelong service.

“That scholarship propelled me forward. Jamaica gave me a start and I felt a deep obligation to give back to the country that believed in me,” she said.

Her journey took her to England in the late 1960s, where she pursued nursing. Specialising in operating room procedures, she quickly found herself in the role of a nurse practitioner, assisting with surgeries and suturing wounds, tasks she loved deeply.

“Whenever I talk about the operating room, it’s like a drug – I just love it,” Allen-Bradley said.

Her career in healthcare spanned nearly 40 years, during which she honed her skills and built a reputation for excellence. Even after retiring, she could not leave her passion for helping others behind.

Returning to Jamaica with her husband, Allen-Bradley immersed herself in volunteer work, joining the Rotary Club of Negril and spearheading numerous charity initiatives.

“Rotary was the driver. I saw what they were doing, and I knew I could help,” she reflected.

One of Allen-Bradley’s most notable contributions has been the establishment of an orthopaedic clinic for children with disabilities, in Negril.

“I never realised how many children in Jamaica needed help – children with spina bifida, cerebral palsy, bowlegs, and other issues,” she said.

The clinic offers free services, providing wheelchairs, braces, splints, and life-changing support to children and their families, and is fully funded by the Riu Hotels in Jamaica.

“When you see a child who couldn’t walk before, running into the clinic, there’s no greater joy. A doctor had told one mother her child would never walk, and now that child runs,” Allen-Bradley said.

Her impact stretches beyond healthcare. In the aftermath of Hurricane Ivan in 2004, she and her husband delivered supplies to devastated communities. Through the Rotary Club, she also provides uniforms for schoolchildren and supports initiatives to uplift the most vulnerable.

“People think you need money to do charity work, but all you need is your time. Time is valuable, and if you can give it, you’re already helping,” she said.

Her work has garnered the attention of many, but the philanthropist remains humble. When asked about receiving the Badge of Honour, she admits that she “is a little embarrassed”.

“You don’t do things for accolades; you do them because it’s the right thing to do,” Allen-Bradley said.

For her, the true reward is the feeling of fulfilment that comes from helping others. “When you feel it in your heart, that’s all the accolade you need,” she said.

Allen-Bradley is also president of the Negril Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Her second consecutive stint in the position, she has developed quite a reputation as a staunch advocate for the development of Negril, and Westmoreland in general.

She also serves as a director on the Tourism Product Development Company Ltd (TPDCo) board, where she plays a key role in advocating for the development and well-being of Negril and its surrounding communities.

The philanthropist has also served on the boards of several local schools, led the Neighbourhood Watch in her community, and volunteers at the St Anthony’s Kitchen, a soup kitchen that provides meals for the less fortunate in the town.

Allen-Bradley volunteers at the kitchen once per week and assists in the serving of breakfast to some 60 children in the area and lunch to more than 200 persons daily.

Her philosophy of giving back extends beyond her own actions. She emphasises the importance of instilling this mindset in the younger generation.

“Sometimes young people don’t realise the value of giving back. You don’t need money; you just need the will to help. If you give your time, the reward comes back to you threefold,” Allen-Bradley said.

The love for her country is profound, and she is passionate about showing Jamaicans the beauty of their own land.

“I’ve always believed that Jamaicans should enjoy the best of life here, just like the tourists do. I’ll never forget when we took some of our clinic children and their parents to a beautiful hotel. One mother started crying, saying she never dreamed she could experience something so beautiful. That’s what I want – for all Jamaicans to know and experience the best our country has to offer,” she said.

Allen-Bradley’s family has been her constant support. Though her husband, Michael Bradley, passed away seven years ago, his spirit remains a guiding force.

“He was always by my side, helping in every charity endeavour. He was my driver, my partner in everything. Since he passed, I’ve poured myself even more into charity. It’s my way of keeping our shared love for helping others alive,” she recalled fondly.

Allen-Bradley is also quick to credit her family for their enthusiasm about the award.

“They’re more excited than I am. They’re flying out just to be here for the ceremony. My grandchildren even do charity work in England, and I love seeing them carry on that spirit,” she said.

When asked if there’s a mantra she lives by, Allen-Bradley responds simply, “Help others if you can”.

“I wake up each day thankful and ask myself, ‘What can I do today to make someone’s life better?’ That’s all there is to it,” she emphasised.

Her immeasurable contribution to health is the talk of the town, and Health Education and Promotion Officer for Westmoreland, Gerald Miller, joins the chorus to sing her praises.

“During the COVID screening activities, she was very supportive in getting partnerships in Negril for us to carry out the screening activities. She played an important role in the Negril Health Centre,” he said.

“She has been supportive of our programmes through the Negril Chamber of Commerce and through her involvement in the Rotary Club. She is an excellent human being. She is always willing to listen and is humanitarian. I like her altruistic persona,” Miller said.

Miller commended Allen-Bradley for her well-deserved national recognition, as her commitment and contribution to Negril knows no bounds.