Barrington 'Barry G' Gordon, before his recent stroke. - Ricardo Makyn/Staff Photographer

Krista Henry, Staff Reporter

While on the road to recovery, ex-radio disc jockey, Barrington 'Barry G' Gordon, is steadfast in being a pioneer for health care.

As previously reported by The Gleaner, Barry G, dubbed 'The Boogie Man', suffered a severe stroke in April and was hospitalised in Florida, United States.

According to the report, Barry G had been unable to walk upright, had been stuttering and had constant hiccups.

The stroke occurred while driving back and forth from Savanna-la-Mar, Westmoreland, to Mandeville, Manchester.

While in Savanna-la-Mar, Gordon sought help from a doctor there who proved very unhelpful, causing Barry G to eventually go to Florida for treatment. He was there since, until his recent return to Jamaica for 'cultural therapy'.

Helping others

At the 'Barry G 'Back To Life' press conference, held in the El Dorado Room, of the Terra Nova Hotel, Waterloo Road, St. Andrew, yesterday morning, the radio pioneer was looking fit and healthy.

Gordon was more than happy to announce the reversal of nearly all the effects of his stroke. Barry G had previously told The Gleaner of his desire to dedicate his life to helping others who find themselves in a similar position.

True to his word, the press conference was held to make the public aware of the serious defect in Jamaica's medical facilities.

The National Health Fund and the Heart Foundation of Jamaica participated in the press conference, lending their support to Gordon's desire to educate and encourage Jamaicans to do blood and pressure checks.

Dr Knox Hagley, chairman of the Heart Foundation of Jamaica and consultant physician, discussed 'What is a Stroke', outlining the causes and effects.

Rosemarie Lee, public information officer at the National Health Fund, outlined that health is each individual's responsibility.

Frightening experience

Barry G also told of his experience, which he said was very frightening and continues to frighten him as there is always the possibility of a second stroke. However, he is grateful for his life and is slowly recovering with the help of medication, regular doctor check-ups, exercise and a few home remedies.

Also present at the conference was Dr. Leachcim Semaj, who Gordon said provided assistance to him in his time of need.

After outlining the lack of full equipment at hospitals across the island, Gordon told the press that he planned to open his own facility in Savanna-la-Mar where all the necessarily equipment would be found under one roof.

"I want to do it in Sav, I would love to work with all those foundations who want to assist," Gordon said.