Castries, 10th January 2023 – Ms. Alicia Baptiste, an esteemed member of the Board of Directors at the Millennium Heights Medical Complex, proudly facilitated a generous donation on Wednesday, 9th January 2023. This altruistic act was made on behalf of Nurse Shern Arthur-McKinnon, a devoted Practical Nurse currently pursuing her RN, BSN.
Nurse Arthur-McKinnon, originally from the town of Vieux-Fort, embarked on her nursing journey driven by personal experiences and a strong desire to contribute to her homeland. Having left Saint Lucia at the age of nine following her grandmother’s passing, she returned at thirteen due to her father’s untimely demise. The painful realization of her father’s absence, perceived as an extended vacation during her childhood, became evident in her late teens, prompting a profound impact on her life.
Reflecting on her journey, Nurse Arthur-McKinnon expressed her apprehensions about returning to Saint Lucia for 23 years, fearing the absence of her father. Eventually overcoming this fear during the Christmas holidays of 2023, she experienced a sense of relief. Although unable to locate her father’s grave, Nurse Arthur-McKinnon remains committed to fulfilling this promise to herself.
Motivated by her personal connection and a passion for making a positive impact, Nurse Arthur-McKinnon sought to improve the healthcare system in Saint Lucia. Operating independently, she mobilized efforts to gather medical supplies through word of mouth. Her dedication culminated in a heartwarming donation to the healthcare system of her homeland.
Expressing gratitude, Nurse Arthur-McKinnon extended her thanks to Ms. Alicia Baptiste for her guidance and support throughout the donation process. She acknowledged the valuable advice received and expressed her appreciation for the encouragement, reinforcing the belief that she will make a meaningful difference.
Furthermore, Nurse Arthur-McKinnon conveyed her heartfelt appreciation to all medical professionals for their unwavering commitment and dedication to the citizens of Saint Lucia. Their relentless efforts in the face of challenges have not gone unnoticed, and she commends their resilience.
Dr. Dexter James, Chief Executive Officer at MHMC noted, “This act of philanthropy stands as a testament to the power of individuals making a difference, fueled by personal experiences and a commitment to contributing to the welfare of their communities. Nurse Shern Arthur-McKinnon’s story serves as an inspiring example of the positive impact that can be achieved through personal dedication and compassion.” He thanked Director Alicia Baptiste for her facilitation of this donation and expressed how grateful MHMC is to receive this donation of medical supplies.