WIPA to assist challenged 12-y-o cricket lover
THE West Indies Players’ Association (WIPA) Wednesday made good on its promise to assist 12-year-old Romall Lawrence, the aspiring cricket analyst who suffers from cerebral palsy.
WIPA vice-president, Jamaican Wavell Hinds and director Michael Hall, made the short drive from Kingston to Old Harbour in St Catherine to meet the engaging and articulate youngster.
Accompanying the WIPA members were double Olympic silver medallist in the 100m and 200m from the 1992 Games in Barcelona Juliet Cuthbert and Carmen Clarke, a member of Cuthbert’s Boot Camp which she conducts at her Kingston-based gym and fitness centre.
WIPA made a cash donation of J$50,000, which will be placed in an account at the Old Harbour branch of the Bank of Nova Scotia (BNS), as well as a donation of items essential to Romall’s daily care and comfort.
Hinds was blown away by Lawrence’s enthusiasm and spirit. “What I see here is a young man who may have physical disabilities, but who clearly has limitless potential as far as his mental and communication skills are concerned,” he said.
Lawrence, who is one half of twins, was visibly thrilled to meet a “real life” West Indian cricketer, and beamed throughout his interaction with the former regional team batsman. When asked who his favourite West Indian cricketer was, the response was measured, and appeared to have been considered several times over. “If you mean of all time, I would have to say Brian Lara, but of those presently playing, it is definitely Chris Gayle.”
The West Indies Cricket Board has also agreed to be a part of what is hoped will be a new beginning for young Lawrence, and has advised WIPA that they stand ready to make the young man’s dream of meeting the West Indies team members a reality when the regional team faces India in the fifth ODI at Sabina Park on June 16.
The Jamaica Cricket Association’s newly elected president Lyndel Wright has also agreed to do whatever is necessary to ensure the young fan’s enjoyment and comfort on the day. Hearing this news was definitely the highlight of Lawrence’s day.
For Olympian Cuthbert, this kind of outreach was nothing new for her and her Boot Camp members, but she confessed that meeting the boy and experiencing first-hand his positive outlook, his confidence and his obvious intellect had moved her almost to tears.
“When I think of people who complain about everything, without remembering to be grateful for what they have, and then to see Romall, so eager to get on with his life despite all of his obvious challenges, I know that we will continue to help in whatever ways we can,” she said.
Plans are now underway to help Lawrence’s mother secure employment, and Hall and Clarke have pledged to find a donor to provide the challenged 12-year-old with a newer and more comfortable wheelchair.