Peter Mathis pushing through barriers

Peter Mathis, a resident of St Catherine, has displayed unwavering determination to provide for himself and his family, despite the challenge of having only one arm.

The 46-year-old lost his right hand while attending a dance in Siloah, St Elizabeth, on August 24, 1997. He recalled being asked to hold a device, which he thought was a flare. The device exploded and the impact of the blast shattered his right hand below the wrist.

Rather than succumbing to self-pity or resentment, the father of two has chosen to lead a life of purpose. Mathis spends his days at the Transportation Centre where he works as a barrier lifter at the Naggo Head Transportation Centre in Portmore. He was among 20 residents who were awarded by the Portmore City Municipality during its civic ceremony yesterday. Mathis received his award for giving 10 years' service to the municipality.

"It is wonderful to be here today and realise that you are loved and appreciated for what you do daily for a living," Mathis said.

He conveyed his pride at being acknowledged and viewed it as a source of motivation to push even harder in his work.

His attitude is a beacon of hope, and he shares, "I feel really good, and it helps me feel even stronger. "I can really tell people not to give up but to try as you can be rewarded for never giving up".