SVGRNA elects new president

Ann deRoche has been elected president of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Retired Nurses Association (SVGRNA). Her elevation to the post came as the Association held its fifth annual general meeting on January 23, 2017.

Other members elected to manage the Association’s affairs for the next two years are vice-president – Adeline Iton, secretary – Catherine Nash, treasurer – Clari Gilbert, assistant secretary/treasurer – Genis Da Silva, public relations officer – Anita Williams, committee member – Joan Mayers. The presiding electoral officer was Zeitha Hadaway.

Outgoing president Clari Gilbert thanked the members for their support and commitment in helping the Association fulfill its goals. The members welcomed the new executive and pledged their support.

During the meeting, the Association reviewed recent activities, including the hosting of the annual Mothers’ Day tea and bingo; patrons were thanked for their support.

Assistance was also given to families and individuals affected by the 2013 weather trough at Buccament, Spring Village and South Rivers. Educational programmes were conducted at the West St George Secondary School and sessions on “Conflict Resolution” were held at the Louis Straker Resource Centre at Layou. In addition, various members of the organization presented health topics at meetings.

Regular visits to shut-in retired nurses were done with distribution of gift packages.

The Male Medical Ward of the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital was adopted in 2015, and since then, the Association has painted the ward, installed new bedside cabinets, provided new IV poles, shower chairs and refurbished some areas. Gift packages were given to patients on two occasions.

Screening of blood pressure, blood sugar and weights are conducted at outlets of Greaves Supermarkets monthly; students of the St Vincent the Grenadines Community College were screened over four days and health and dietary counselling provided where necessary. Assistance was also provided to other organizations providing care to the general public.

The Association expressed its gratitude to the Mustique Charitable Trust for sponsoring the health screenings that are conducted monthly at all the Greaves Supermarkets and also to Lady “J” for hosting their monthly meetings.

The various radio stations were thanked for broadcasting announcements and also the local newspapers for publishing articles. The Association takes this opportunity to wish everyone the best in 2017.