Dear Editor,

A week after the passing of Sarah Newland-Martin I am finally able to attempt an articulation of the loss experienced by the Rotary Club of Kingston (RCOK) and, by extension, Jamaica.

I have had the pleasure of knowing Rotarian Newland-Martin for more than 10 years, and the stories of her background and many accolades have been well-documented in recent days. While the words on paper will do justice to a life well lived, it is harder to describe how she made a multitude of people feel. She was a Christian powerhouse who would never hesitate to lead in prayers of recovery for RCOK members and their immediate families.

Among many initiatives, her commitment to people living with disabilities was tangibly demonstrated in her facilitating the donation of six wheelchairs during the 2021/2022 Rotary year. Our club even ventured to Brown’s Town, St Ann, to make one such donation, which, to my surprise, was a follow-up to a similar 2018 visit. Such was the sustainability of Newland-Martin’s commitment to mankind and the spirit of Rotary.

Given her output of energy and leadership at the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA), one would have never known that she was having physical challenges. I am continually startled when I consider her spearheading our annual painting of the “Disabled Parking” signs at the Kingston Public Hospital (KPH) and Victoria Jubilee Hospital (VJH) and sourcing all the necessary items. All we were required to do as members was turn up and get the work done.

Finally, I can unequivocally state that the difficulties of this 2021/2022 presidential year would have overwhelmed me without Rotarian Newland-Martin walking alongside, praying for, and encouraging me. We are heartbroken, saddened, and mourning the departure of our dearly beloved Rotarian. May her soul rest in peace, and light perpetual shine on her.

Ryan Strachan

President

Rotary Club of Kingston