Over many years, the benevolent organization, ‘The Friends of the Hospital’
has been contributing to various medical causes at the Princess Alexandra Hospital. On Thursday, June 27th, in the hospital’s humble lunchroom, its members did it again, this time donating a check of US$2,200 for to the maintenance of the dialysis machines and towards the training of personnel to operate them.
Ms. Audrey Brooks, President of the organization, provided a brief history of ‘The Friends of the Hospital’ Club – as the oldest civic organization in Anguilla. She reflects: “The group was started in 1974 by the then Her Majesty’s Deputy Commissioner’s wife, Mrs. Betty Campbell, after visiting the infirmary located at the top of Crocus Hill. At that time, the infirmary used to be called the Poor House.
“Over the many decades since its inception, ‘The Friends of the Hospital’ has been a beacon of volunteer service for the needy. Once a year, we host a Christmas luncheon for the elderly, including those in various nursing homes.”
President Brooks continued by expressing appreciation to ‘The Friends of the Hospital’ Club and all who have supported it: “I wish to say thanks to the many members of the club, as well as to all our friends, and volunteers who have given of their time, and resources.
“I appreciate all those who stand in support of ‘The Friends of the Hospital’, whether it is by selling tickets, donating cakes or making sandwiches. In addition, I would like to say thanks to all the staff of the hospital for taking care of the sick and infirmed — especially to the staff of the Dialysis Unit.”
The most recent donated check of US$2,200 was received on behalf of the Dialysis Unit by Acting Manager of the Unit, Nurse Nancy Evangelista, RN. She expressed her gratitude to the club for the kind gesture, and insisted that the funds would be put to good use for the upkeep of the Unit as well as for the training of the Dialysis Unit’s staff.
Staff Reporter, James R. Harrigan
