BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – PARALYSED Keys Villager Dion Berry is scheduled to depart the Federation tomorrow (Mar. 26) at 12 noon for Trinidad, where he is scheduled undergo a corrective spinal surgery in order for him to walk again.
Following a diving accident at Major’s Bay at the South East Peninsula on Sunday, March 3, 2013, the 26-year-old unfortunately fractured his spinal cord.
Berry would be accompanied by his mother, Victoria ‘Vicki’ Berry.
The overall cost for his medical treatment is approximately US$8 5000, which includes therapy.
Prior to the operation, he is scheduled to have an MRI and other neurological tests.
He would be transported to Trinidad by air ambulance through the services of Jet Budget from St. Maarten.
In an effort to raise funds for him to undergo the operation, an event dubbed ‘CONKARA’ was held at Atlantic 7 Club in Keys Village on Saturday (Mar. 23).
Despite a low turnout, the young man’s father, Bruce Berry, while speaking with SKNVibes, expressed gratitude that monies were collected and noted that “every little bit counts”.
He declared that other events that took place over the weekend had caused the fundraiser not to have a better turnout.
He however disclosed that plans are afoot for additional fundraisers.
According to him, the money raised so far would cover the hospital and aircraft expenses but there would be others, including therapy sessions, that would need funding while overseas.
He extended thanks to members of the public for their kind and generous assistance thus far and is appealing for others to donate.
During a recent interview with Berry at the Joseph N. France Hospital, he spoke highly of his parents and the support he got from them during this challenging time.
“It’s real good. I never expected them to just abandon me. We’ve always been very close whenever I had my problems. So I’m grateful still that they are here…both of them are here alive and in good health.”
He is calling on members to the public to financially contribute whatever they could and also to pray for him.
“I know it’s hard times and a lot people might not be able to do anything. So even if they keep me in their prayers, I would much appreciate it. Who could to do something…do what they could and I would appreciate it. I would be praying for you all also. I give thanks to the Most High, for everything little counts…every little positive blessing.”
In response to what he misses most since being unable to use of his legs, with a chuckle Berry replied, “Everything! Right now I mainly just miss the sunshine outside, the fresh breeze, sitting down under a tree …just simple stuff.”
Reading the Bible is an “everyday thing” for him; something that he religiously does on a daily basis.
While lying on the hospital bed, Berry talked about a pain that he would get at certain times, starting from his neck and extending to his head. He however stated that it is not as intense as it was shortly after the accident.
Berry believes that his positive outlook on life has allowed him to cope with his current health situation.
“My life kinda up and down! I always stay positive…you know. That kinda helped me through this situation. I’ve always been a patient person.”
Persons desirous of contributing to Dion Berry’s Medical Fund can do so by visiting http://janelleberry.com/dion.html.
