Charlestown, Nevis — The Nevis Renal Society hosted its second annual Gala awards dinner at the OCCASIONS on the evening of Saturday 2nd November.
President Alexa Pemberton noted that her Association has been lobbying for a Dialysis Unit for the island, for some 12 years now and applauded the former NRP led Administration for its initiative in securing such a unit. She voiced the hope that the Unit which is situated at the Alexandra Hospital will soon be commissioned.
Premier of Nevis, the Hon Vance Amory in his remarks was a lot more cautious in his approach and noted that his administration is currently engaged in research towards ensuring that all of the required aspects necessary for the smooth operation of the machine are in place. He noted that contacts have been made a with a provider ion St.Croix who may be able to assi9st with the setting up of the machine.
Key note speaker for the evening was the dynamic and youthful Mr. Anselm Caines, a budding lawyer who used his fine oratory skills, developed during his debating years at the Charlestown Secondary School, to captivate the packed hall with some sound advice.
He pointed out that five years ago, the number of diabetic patients on Nevis was registered at 497 and noted that that number has since gone past the 600 mark. He also noted that there are more deaths recorded across the Caribbean from non communicable diseases, than even the dreaded AIDS.
He implored his hearers to adhere to necessary life style changes which included a change to a more nourishing diet and adequate exercise. He however admitted that the foods that tend to harm us the most, are the foods that are more tasty and to our liking.
Dr. Glenville Liburd was the Chairperson for the evening and he referred to the dialysis unit that is currently at the Alexandra hospital as a baby just waiting to be born and he implored Premier Amory and his Administration to ensure that the ‘baby’ was delivered quickly and safely. He also indicated that his research has pointed to the possibility of portable dialysis units becoming a regular feature of life in the not too distant future.
Former dialysis patient, Adolphus Warner, received an award posthumously for his valiant struggle against the dreaded ailment. The award was graciously accepted by two of his sons.
Also included as part of the evening were some top up giveaways for lucky winners, a sumptuous dinner and dancing.