The St. John Association of Antigua & Barbuda, which is a registered charity under the patronage of Their Excellencies Sir Rodney and Lady Williams, held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Wednesday, September 20, 2023, at Government House.

Distinguished members of the organization, including His Excellency the Governor General, attended the meeting and were commended for their outstanding contributions to the community.

During the meeting, Governor General Sir Rodney Williams praised the remarkable work of the St. John Ambulance, especially the St. John Hospice, which is the first of its kind in the Eastern Caribbean.

The hospice has been providing palliative care to terminally ill patients at significantly discounted costs, thus easing the burden on countless needy families. The Governor General acknowledged the hospice’s success due to the unwavering support of its dedicated members and staff, and the generosity of private and corporate citizens.

He also recognized the international organizations that have supported the cause, particularly Phil Keoghan and the entire CBS production team of “Secret Celebrity Renovations,” who were acknowledged for their significant contribution.

The team transformed the St. John Hospice in Antigua and Barbuda, and the heartwarming episode was broadcast on Friday, August 4th on CBS network, and again on our local station ABS on Friday, September 15th.

In the heart-touching Season 3 premiere of “Secret Celebrity Renovation,” Phil Keoghan returned to his hometown of Antigua and Barbuda to surprise his former neighbor, hospice volunteer, Lotte Edwards, with a much-needed renovation to the St. John Hospice, located at the Holberton grounds.

The episode also showcased Keoghan’s tour of Antigua and Barbuda, where he reminisced about his childhood, including visits to his old house and school.

Key reports were presented during the AGM. Ms. Heather Mannix-Labadie, out-going President of the St. John Ambulance, presented her annual report, highlighting the organization’s achievements and milestones.

The Board Chairman welcomed the incoming Chair, Mr. Pedro Corbin, wished him well and pledged her continued support.

The Treasurer presented the financial report, demonstrating prudent financial management. Administrator Cathlyn Gilkes shared valuable insights, and representative Rosemary Magoris, of the charity’s thrift shop, Fashion Encore 1, provided an update on its activities.

The members of the Association expressed their sincere gratitude to the outgoing Chairman. They applauded her faithful service to the organization in the post of Chairman for the past ten years.

Founder Mrs. Agnes Meeker was also in attendance, embodying the spirit and commitment that has guided the St John Ambulance on its journey to becoming St John Association of Antigua & Barbuda. With eighteen years of faithful service, she continues to be an inspiration to its members.

The St John Association of Antigua & Barbuda remains grateful for its support from the community, both locally and internationally.

With the dedication of its members and staff and the generosity of its partners, the organization looks forward to continuing its mission of providing compassionate care to those in need.

Photos of the Executive and Members of the St. John Association of Antigua and Barbuda in attendance at its AGM 2023 at Government House.

His Excellency Sir Rodney Williams, Governor General and Patron (left), presenting instruments of appointment to the incoming Chairman of the Board, St. John Association of Antigua and Barbuda, Mr. Pedro Corbin (right); in the foreground seated, Past President, Ms. Heather Mannix-Labadie.