Kingston's downtown population is more than familiar with the Victoria Jubilee Hospital (VJH). More than withstanding the test of time, it has withstood and seen the social changes and their associated chaos within our country's capital.

Simply referred to as Jubilee when I was growing up, I remember my mother telling me that this was where she went for her prenatal checks for all of her four children, including me.

Decorous birthing

As was aptly stated in your Saturday, October 3 editorial, the VJH is not now a place for "decorous birthing" for the wealthy among us, but at one time it was the place for all mothers, whether they had an uptown or downtown address.

We should all take a bow for this 'old lady' of North Street. She has served this country unfailingly. Her staff ought to be commended for being there for the many mothers and nervous fathers.

If Shaggy can earn millions for the Bustamante Hospital for Children, why can't the same be done for the VJH? Successive governments have probably been content with the level of care and the infrastructure of the VJH, and so too many mothers from downtown Kingston probably think so.

But would a pregnant woman from above Half-Way Tree take the chance and birth her child at the VJH?

The VJH should be made once again the primary referral hospital within the Caribbean, offering the best in pre and antenatal care for all women, regardless of their social standing.

Happy birthday to the Victoria Jubilee Hospital!

I am, etc.,

SILVER FOX

Kingston