WIPA, Cuthbert help disabled cricket fan

Jermaine Lannaman, Gleaner Writer

Cerebral palsy survivor, 12-year-old Romall Lawrence, who dreams of one day becoming a cricket analyst, was all smiles on Wednesday after realising another of his dreams - meeting former West Indies player Wavell Hinds.

The meeting, which took place at Lawrence's home in Old Harbour, St Catherine, saw Hinds, vice-president of the West Indies Players' Association (WIPA), Michael Hall, a director of the organisation, and Olympian Juliet Cuthbert making good on a promise to visit the youngster, who is wheelchair-bound.

"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," said Hinds, who along with Hall, Cuthbert, and a member of her 'Boot Camp' gym and fitness centre, Carmen Clarke, made the journey.

They had heard of Lawrence's plight following the airing of a recent local television programme in which his condition was highlighted, and his fairly good knowledge of cricket was revealed.

Cash donation

WIPA, through Hinds and Hall, donated $50,000 and an assortment of essential items for his daily care and comfort to Lawrence.

The money will be placed in an account at the Bank of Nova Scotia (BNS), Old Harbour branch.

Cuthbert, who said meeting Lawrence and experiencing first-hand his positive outlook, confidence and obvious intellect had almost moved her to tears, made a donation of shoes, clothes, books, and food items to Lawrence and his twin brother, Romell.

"When I think of people who complain about everything, without remembering to be grateful for what they have, and then see Romall, so eager to get on with his life despite all of his obvious challenges ... it's moving," she said.

Very happy

Lawrence, who was visibly thrilled to meet Hinds and beamed throughout their interactions, said he was grateful for the visit.

"I am really, really happy that you came," he said. "Meeting you guys is a pleasure, and it means a lot."

Lawrence was also asked who was his favourite West Indian cricketer, and after taking a while to think, said Brian Lara and Chris Gayle.

"If you mean of all time, I would have to say Brian Lara. But of those presently playing, it is definitely Chris Gayle," he said.

Hall and Clarke made a pledge before they left to find a donor to help with providing Lawrence with a newer and more comfortable wheelchair, while plans are under way to help Lawrence's mother secure employment.

Meanwhile, another dream, that of meeting members of the West Indies team, is set to be realised by Lawrence, courtesy of the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB).

According to Hinds, the WICB, in association with the Jamaica Cricket Association, has agreed to facilitate Lawrence attending the fifth one-day international between the West Indies and India at Sabina Park on June 16.

Person's interested in contributing to Lawrence's rehabilitation can make donations at any BNS branch islandwide to account # 414279, Old Harbour branch. Overseas contributors may contact the branch directly at (876) 983-2205.