LETTER: Giving Credit Where It Is Due

Dear Editor,

I strongly believe in giving people their flowers while they are alive to see them, appreciate them, and enjoy them.

Today, I would like to publicly express my sincere appreciation to the Honorable Michael Joseph for his exceptional responsiveness and commitment to public service.

Although I do not know him personally, I was genuinely impressed by the prompt and professional manner in which he responded to my WhatsApp messages. In today’s environment, where many constituents often struggle to receive timely responses from public officials, his willingness to listen, respond, and assist deserves recognition.

I contacted Minister Joseph regarding two separate concerns within Antigua and Barbuda’s healthcare system. The first involved the lengthy wait times at the Emergency Department of the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre. He responded promptly, provided a clear explanation for the delay, reached out to the appropriate hospital personnel, and shared the information he received. I greatly appreciated his transparency, responsiveness, and willingness to follow through on the matter.

The second concern involved my sister, who had been without her prosthetic leg for two months due to delays in the specialist’s visit to the island. I sent Minister Joseph a WhatsApp message on Monday and followed up on Tuesday. Later that same Tuesday, my sister received a call from her doctor’s office informing her that the specialist would be on the island on Friday and that she had been scheduled for an appointment. While I understand that many factors contribute to the delivery of healthcare services, I sincerely appreciate Minister Joseph’s willingness to intervene and ensure that the matter received the attention it deserved.

Honorable Michael Joseph, thank you for your accessibility, professionalism, compassion, and unwavering dedication to serving the people of Antigua and Barbuda. Leadership is measured not only by words but by action, and your responsiveness demonstrated a genuine commitment to helping those in need.

Please continue the excellent work. I pray that God will continue to grant you wisdom, strength, and guidance as you serve our nation. Based on the leadership, compassion, and dedication you have demonstrated, I believe you possess the qualities of an outstanding national leader. I wish you God’s richest blessings and every success in your continued service to the people of Antigua and Barbuda.

Written and submitted by: Carlene Spencer-Callwood