CG hails Jamaica Medical Mission on its 14th anniversary

Washington DC: Consul general of Jamaica in New York, Alsion Wilson, has hailed the Help Jamaica Medical Mission (HelpJaMM) for its unwavering dedication to providing ‘quality healthcare to the mentally disadvantaged in Jamaica and New Jersey’.

In an address to the supporters gathered at HelpJaMM’s 14th Annual Black-Tie Fundraiser Dinner Dance, at the Hanover Manor, East Hanover, New Jersey, on Saturday, November 9, Wilson conveyed the Jamaican government and diaspora’s warmest congratulations.

“This milestone event is a testament to your unwavering dedication to providing ‘healthcare for every living person in Jamaica and New Jersey’ - a shining embodiment of your organisational slogan,” she noted.

Since its founding in 2010 by Dr Robert Clarke and Dr Rudolph Willis, HelpJaMM has been a beacon of hope, bringing vital medical aid to those in desperate need across Jamaica and New Jersey. “Your tireless efforts have elevated the standards of healthcare provision, positively impacting countless lives across our beloved island and in New Jersey,” Wilson remarked.

“These acts of service exemplify your commitment to the well-being of the Jamaican people,” Wilson noted. “As you celebrate this 14th anniversary, I encourage you to continue embracing your mission with unwavering resolve. Your work is the embodiment of the spirit of ‘One Love’ - a love for our people, a love for service, and a love for the betterment of our communities.”

NEW PROJECT

Since its inception, HelpJaMM has facilitated life-saving surgeries performed on approximately 20,000 patients. “These accomplishments are a testament to the power of your collective resolve,” said Wilson.

As the organisation looks forward to its 15th anniversary in January 2025, the consul general assured her continued support for efforts that advance the health and well-being of the Jamaican people.

“HelpJaMM is a shining example of the diaspora’s dedication to giving back and uplifting our communities,” she remarked. “I encourage you to keep the Jamaican flag flying high, to keep supporting our brothers and sisters in need, and to keep working towards your noble objective of providing free, quality healthcare to those who need it most.”

In giving an overview, president of HelpJaMM) Dr Robert Clarke said: “This year, our journey took us to Seaford Town in Westmoreland, Smithsville in Clarendon, Greensvale and Christiana in Manchester, Hartease and Yallahs in St Thomas, and Waltham Park in Kingston.

He said the team saw just over 5,000 persons, distributed 3,000 pairs of eyeglasses, and did medical examinations for over 500 students. In addition, he said, the team also distributed well-needed medication and medical supplies valued at some US$50,000.

Dr Clarke disclosed that a feature of this year’s mission was the new project of testing young young athletes in high schools for congenital heart disease, which he said, so far, has been rewarding with some interesting results.

He thanked the donors and support of the medical mission for their continued support, as, without their assistance, the organisation would not be able to to assist the tens of thousands of individuals in Jamaica, Africa, and New Jersey.

Three individuals, Aneita Fullurton, Jahmal Peart and Dr Akosua Serwah Boabu, were awarded with the 2024 Health Care Service Award of Excellence.