Several Government dignitaries and healthcare personnel attended last Sunday morning’s service at the Church of God (Holiness) to observe the significance of World Heath Day, which incidentally, fell on Saturday, April 7th.
Pastor Philip Gumbs was delighted to give the visitors a cordial welcome. Among the guests were the Hon. Minister of Health, Mr. Evans McNeil Rogers; Deputy Governor Mr. Perin Bradley; Mrs. Evalie Bradley; Permanent Secretary of Health, Mr. Foster Rogers; and Attorney General Mr. John McKendrick QC.
Other attendees, attached to the Department of Health, included: The Acting CEO of the Health Authority, Mrs. Meridith Gumbs; Chief Medical Officer, Ms. Aisha Andrewin; Executive Secretary, Ms. Florence Harrigan; Members of the Health Authority Board, and Members of the World Health Day Committee.
In addressing the congregation, Mr. Evans McNiel Rogers reflected on the importance of the services of local healthcare professionals, but first noted: “Without the grace and mercy of the good Lord, none of us would be here today. I take this opportunity to thank our healthcare professionals for the work that they have been doing, and continue to do, under limited and severe conditions.
“There is no doubt that without the mercy and grace of God they would not be able to achieve what they have accomplished over the years. Healthcare is not something done by the wayside, but it is about service rendered on a daily basis, hour by hour, minute by minute, and even seconds are of importance.
“We have all had our experience with Hurricane Irma. While some of us might have been comfortable at home, there were healthcare professionals at the hospital performing at their best even when the high winds were blowing. They were on duty before, during, and after the storm, and they are to be highly commended. And while they assist in saving and prolonging lives, we all share a higher need for the giver of life who controls all of our health and medical activities.
“Today, I wish to express my thanks to all: the doctors, the nurses, all of the ancillary staff and those individuals who participate in one way or another in making patients comfortable. We thank you for your patience as we continue to work hard to bring your working conditions up to par with what they should be.
“However, being the kind of healthcare professionals that you are, we wish to thank God for your dedication in rendering your services. We give praises to God, the great one, who has us all here. Thank you, church! Continue to pray for us. Continue to pray for the healthcare of the people of this country and for Anguilla in general.”
Pastor Gumbs then invited Executive Secretary, Mrs. Florence Harrigan, to deliver an address on behalf of the Ministry of Health: In part, she stated: “The purpose of World Health Day is to encourage Government, organizations, and stakeholders to invest in health in order to foster human and social development. This year, World Health Day is being observed under the theme: ‘Universal Health, Everyone, Everywhere.’
“The concept of universal health has its underpinnings in health as a fundamental human right — a right for every human being, regardless of race, religion, political beliefs, economic or social conditions. Universal health is about ensuring that all people and communities have access to health services without discrimination of any kind, and without suffering financial hardship. It covers a full range of health services including: health promotion, disease prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and palliative care. These services must be of sufficient quality, comprehensive, safe, effective and affordable for all. This is key to our nation’s health and wellbeing.”
The week, Monday April 9th to Friday April 13th, was earmarked as World Heath Day Awareness Week with several health related activities taking place particularly at the primary schools level.
Sunday’s energetic church service was well appreciated. The worship session was particularly inspiring, and the spirited ambiance made for a great delight and blessing for all who attended.
