Excerpt from The Jamaica Observer column published on Monday, March 14, 2022
By Jean Lowrie-Chin
Governor General Sir Patrick Allen has proclaimed March 11 as National Paralympic Day each year.
In his message on the day, Sir Patrick noted, “The recent promulgation of the Disabilities Act, coupled with the Proclamation of Paralympic Day highlight one of the messages of our national anthem: ‘Teach us true respect for all.’ “
It was Professor Sir John Golding, founder of the Mona Rehab Centre, now named after him, who created the Jamaica Paraplegic Association in 1966, laying the foundation for the Jamaica Paralympic Association in 2008, now led by attorney-at-law Christopher Samuda.
As we joined the Digicel Foundation team for work on the renovation of the paralympic court and stands at the rehab centre last Friday, we spoke with President Samuda; Paralympics gold medallist Alphanso Cunningham; Neville Sinclair, who coaches basketball and field events from his wheelchair; and Toto Campbell, who coaches basketball and surfing.
Samuda says they are looking forward to participating in a table tennis tournament coming up shortly in Birmingham, England, and the hosting of regional paralympic events in the upgraded court. Digicel Foundation Special Needs Officer Jeneard Williamson, who coordinates several events from his wheelchair, beamed with pride as he wielded his paint brush.
Folks who use wheelchairs have expressed their disgust at the way they are treated by insensitive members of the public. They are hard-working members of our Jamaican family, who have brought us much national pride. Please show them the respect they deserve.
Jamaica Highlights 