There was a big splash of bright red, lighting up our champion sprinter Usain Bolt (his statue, that is) recently. Why?
As part of this year’s World Heart Day celebration, The Heart Foundation of Jamaica – which is celebrating its fiftieth anniversary this year – illuminated the Usain Bolt statue, located at the National Stadium in Kingston on September 23, 2021.

World Heart Day, is celebrated on September 29, observing the theme: “Use ❤️ to Connect.” This year I have been seeing several reports on the risks that COVID-19 poses to our hearts (not only for those who already have heart conditions, but for previously healthy younger patients in their 30s and 40s).
The lighting ceremony is done annually in response to the global charge by the World Heart Federation (WHF) to shine red on a national monument to raise awareness of the world’s number one killer, and as a show of support and recognition for those persons living with cardiovascular disease.
The lighting is a powerful visual symbol of our fight against premature mortality caused by cardiovascular disease. The Foundation is emphasizing the need for all of us to participate in lifestyle practices that will help to maintain a heathy heart.
Bolt’s eight-foot bronze figure was first unveiled at the National Stadium on December 3, 2017, taking the sprint sensation’s famous “To the World” stance. The statue was sculpted by Jamaican sculptor and painter Basil Watson, CD.
Other landmarks and statues that have been lit by WHF member nations include the Eiffel Tower (Paris France), The Eye (London, England), Niagara Falls (Canada), and the Sydney Opera House (Sydney, Australia), to name a few.
The Heart Foundation of Jamaica, by the way, provides an excellent (inexpensive) service in screening, testing, counseling and clinic services. Founded in 1971 by the Lions Club of Kingston, the Foundation offers reasonably priced training in CPR and First Aid for non-medical personnel. Become a member today and obtain benefits. You can find them at 28 Beechwood Avenue, Kingston 5. Tel: (876) 926-4378; 926-6492; 929-3195. Email: info@heartfoundation.org. They are also on Twitter @heartjamaica and on Facebook and Instagram.
PS. Next year, how about lighting up Miss Lou’s statue in Gordon Town?

Reblogged this on Ned Hamson's Second Line View of the News.
LikeLike