CIBC Supports Sickle Cell Association

On Saturday, the staff members of CIBC Caribbean gathered to support their Adopt-a-Cause project for the Antigua and Barbuda Sickle Cell Association.

The event was joined by CIBC workers, American University of Antigua students, and members of the Sickle Cell Association, who all teamed up to plant trees and plants on the land that houses the association’s building at the Holberton Hospital.

Dr. Edda Hadeed, the President of the Sickle Cell Association, expressed her gratitude at the support shown by everyone who participated, thanking them for coming out.

According to Dr. Hadeed, “Last year we were lucky enough to be selected for CIBC Caribbean’s Adopt-a-Cause programme, where CIBC not only provides funding but also encourages volunteers and hands-on help. Our building here was in dire need of various repairs, which got done thanks to CIBC, and today they along with some AUA students have participated in our plant a tree day.”

She further explained that the building is used as a Sheltered Workshop for sickle cell patients, where they learn and practice new skills at their own pace such as sewing, embroidery, mosaic, and tie-dye. Ladesa James-Williams, the bank’s country head, who also planted a mango tree, stated that Adopt a Cause goes beyond giving money.

She emphasized that “When we say we care about our community, we really care. A major part of the programme is to get staff involved doing hands-on work.

I am so proud that so many of our staff volunteers are here today to demonstrate that we are also prepared to physically do the hard work to support these projects.”

The bank donated US$4,000 to the project but Mrs. James-Williams realized that the building urgently needed a facelift, while touring the facility, and agreed on the spot to sponsor the paint to facilitate the building being repainted.

Amanda Trotter, who spearheaded this Adopt-a-Cause project on behalf of the bank, also extended thanks to Antigua Plumbing and Hardware, Linges, Ministry of the Environment and Dynamic L & L, for their donations and support.

Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is a blood disorder that causes red cells to become distorted, brittle, and sticky, which results in severe anemia and blockages of small blood vessels.

Patients experience severe, often unbearable pain, organ damage, and a myriad of possible complications.