Allow me the privilege of using this medium to express sincere thanks and appreciation to the United States embassy and its caring and efficient staff members who were on duty on the morning of October 6.

I had reason to accompany an extremely sick young man to the embassy in an effort to obtain a visa for medical purposes. This young man, Delroy Baxter, 26, was a crew member employed to Royal Caribbean Cruise Line and a gravely ill patient in the University Hospital. It was indeed a medical emergency and Delroy was visibly ill.

Preparing for the worst

Beset by trepidation and scepticism, I took the decision to accompany him to the embassy. All who knew of the pending visit said it would have been futile since personnel at the embassy had a reputation of being cold and uncaring and certainly would not accommodate anyone except the applicant. Nevertheless, I took a chance, and, on reaching, I was met with a few shouts of "join di line" but I ignored these voices and proceeded to approach a small group of police officers assembled at the entrance of the building.

I explained the circumstance to them and my appeal was met with utmost courtesy, understanding and sensitivity. Security checks were thoroughly done with complete urgency, and we were in and out of the embassy in less than 30 minutes with a promise that the visa would be issued within four days.

Jamaican characteristic

Needless to say, I was stunned by the kindness extended, considering the negative image already painted in my mind. The staff at the embassy demonstrated what I know is a characteristic of Jamaicans - unparalleled compassion, neighbourly concern and a willingness to serve.

Hope truly springs alive again. And although on Thursday, October 8, at nightfall I got the dreaded phone call from his doctor saying "Delroy is dead," I believe that he himself knew that if the US embassy staff could have saved him, they would have. Truly, my heart can, in its sorrow, rejoice. Once again, I salute everyone at the US embassy who played a role in this great act of kindness. Hope lives on!

I am, etc.,

BEVERLEY KINLOCKE

bkinlocke@yahoo.co.uk

Kingston