Robinson receives award from international organisation

Almost six years ago, Lonnie Robinson’s future looked grim, after he suffered life-threatening injuries in an accident.{{more}} Today, things are considerably brighter – especially as he was recently named 2012 International Volunteer of the Year, by the World Pediatric Project (WPP).

In a letter dated June 3, 2011, WPP president Susan Rickman informed Robinson of the accolade, calling the unanimous decision “an honour and one we don’t bestow lightly”.

“I am… truly humbled to have received that. The World Pediatric Project has been doing quite a lot for persons internationally, and I feel blessed to be a part of and associated with the work that they are doing,” said Robinson.

He added: “It came as a surprise to me. I am happy that they have chosen to do that…”

Robinson received the award based on his work as president of the Dove Club – a local liaison group of the WPP (formerly the International Hospital for Children) that helps to identify children who are in dire need of medical assistance, but cannot afford it.

He will receive his plaque award from a WPP representative at the celebration for the 100th Vincentian patient to receive treatment at the organisation’s US-based medical facilities in Virginia. The event is scheduled to take place on July 16, at the Victoria Park.

The Dove Club celebrated its second anniversary on April 20; and under Robinson’s leadership has been working diligently to raise funds and awareness, and educate the public on health matters.

“We are hoping to expand… get more people involved,” he shared.

“The organisation has been relatively unknown to most Vincentians. Even at the time I would have benefitted, I was not aware that such help is available. If people know that there are avenues that they can use to get treatment, a lot more medical complications can be treated in the early stages.”

WPP president Susan Rickman lauded Robinson for his good work, stating: “…with a job and baby, it is not a small feat to dedicate additional time to volunteering for World Pediatric Project.”

She also said that, given the trauma Robinson endured during his recovery from the accident, the organisation is grateful that he is a part of their large family of healed children and volunteers.

On October 9, 2005, Robinson (who was at the time a final year student at the SVG Community College) was involved in an accident while riding his bicycle in Campden Park.

He suffered a six-inch skill fracture, facial and dental trauma, and a neck injury that caused paralysis to his left arm. He also experienced muscle wastage in that arm, which caused his shoulder to dislocate.

Through the [then] International Hospital for Children, he underwent multiple corrective and reconstructive surgeries – which cost over US$500,000 – free of charge.