Barbara Ellington, Lifestyle Editor

Dr. O'Meally-Nelson as she received her award from Governor-General Prof. Kenneth Hall (left) on Heroes Day. Looking on is Aide-de-camp Capt. Samuel Ellis. - Norman Grindley/Deputy Chief Photographer

They came from the family parish, St. James, and as far as the United States to celebrate the distinction of her national award with Blossom O'Meally-Nelson on Heroes Day. She was awarded the Order of Distinction, Commander Class for Outstanding Public Service.

The venue for the post-presentation ceremony brunch was the upscale Jencare Skin Farm on Hope Road in St. Andrew. Hosts Jennifer and Lloyd Samuda pulled out all the stops to transform the spa into a relaxed party atmosphere. And, Jennifer switched lab coat for apron as she personally prepared a lavish feast of heritage favourites. These included: a wicked turn cornmeal, Spanish rice, seasoned rice, barbecue chicken, fried fish, crispy fried lobster, curried goat, ham, meat balls, manish water, potato salad and vegetarian dishes for non-meat eaters. Rev. Serrano Kitson blessed the meal.

Blossom arrived glowing in a trendy off white designer skirt suit, adorned with medal hanging from a ribbon in the colours of the flag. She blew air kisses at everyone. The formalities, chaired by son Tal Stokes, included toasts from friend Ryland Campbell, who lauded her for dressing well and speaking so well, even in the vernacular. "You are an independent woman with independent mind, thinking and action," he said.

Her Outstanding Capacity

Long-time friend Audrey Hinchcliffe spoke of Blossom's outstanding capacity to straddle academia and comedy. "You were efficient as Postmaster General; your heart and spirit are unmatched, you remained in Jamaica through thick and thin and your award is well deserved," she said.

Brother Arthur Nelson, who spoke on behalf of the family, lauded their parents for bringing them up right. His toast was punctuated with humorous anecdotes from the family archives. Son Chris Stokes who spoke on behalf of the siblings (in spite of their heckling), reflected on the early years of family struggle and his mother's insistence on maintaining her individuality.

"When she cut her hair in the popular afro style, many thought the devil had got her soul," he said to much laughter. He recalled the times when mom was the 'bone of her dexterior.' He concluded, "Mom will not leave us money when she dies but she will leave us courage, commitment, hope, discipline, truth and friendship. She is an outstanding woman, mother and friend."

In her reply, Blossom thanked everyone for their time and good wishes while urging them to always be the best they can be. "My family are the greatest human beings I know, even when we disagree. I have struggled and even been fired three times but have always been true to myself," she said.

Celebrants

Those celebrating with O'Meally-Nelson included: children Chris and Tal Stokes and their wives Kayon and Denise respectively; (Denise made a superb camera woman). grandchildren Christian, Teressa, Natalia and Michael Stokes; sibling Arthur Nelson and his wife Barbara; aunt (and original), Blossom O'Meally; Carol Ball Thompson, Derrick and Thyra Heaven; Nevine Heaven; Ray Davis and Mrs. Davis; hosts Jennifer and Lloyd Samuda; Shirley Tyndall, Audrey Hinchcliffe, Audrey Marks and her lovely girls Morgan and Madison Dunstan; Mike and Dawn Henry; Stephen Lyn Kee Chow; Ryland Campbell; Ian Neita and his wife; Albert and Valerie Nelson; Jackie and Beverly Minott; Sonia Dixon, and hosts more.