According to the NHS official website, the recent devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica has left many residents, including Angela Cope’s family, without power or internet. Angela, a Walsall Healthcare worker, only learned late last night that her 94-year-old father, Royland, and other relatives were safe. “There’s no power, no internet, and seeing all those terrible images on TV without being able to contact my family was the worst thing,” Angela shared.
Angela’s cousin Conroy, who cares for her father, was able to confirm that Royland was okay, providing Angela with much-needed relief. However, the damage to homes and cars is severe, and many families, including Angela’s, have lost precious memories, particularly with the destruction of her aunt’s house. “My auntie’s house, where we all spent our childhoods, has gone. So many memories were wrapped up in that house,” she said.
Claudette Wright, another Walsall Healthcare worker, faced similar distress as she waited for news of her relatives in Jamaica. Only at 2 a.m. today did she learn that her family in Manchester Parish and St Thomas Parish were safe.
“With no internet, I had no idea if they were OK. That uncertainty was the hardest part,” she said. Her family, using generators, is doing their best under extremely difficult conditions.
Both Angela and Claudette expressed their deep relief that their families are safe but extended their thoughts to all the people affected by the hurricane. They also called for international support to assist with the relief and rebuilding efforts.
To support the island’s recovery, donations can be made through the British Red Cross or Support Jamaica website