Sagicor Sigma Run targets $100m

Oranisers of this year's Sagicor Sigma Run are seeking to raise over $100 million to continue to impact Jamaica's healthcare and education systems as in previous years.

"The run is in memory of Dr R Danny Williams, late philanthropist and chairman of the Sagicor Foundation Board. As a friend and mentor to many, Danny's influence on our community and his unwavering commitment to positive change resonates deeply with the spirit of our Sigma Corporate Run. As we move forward, we pledge to honour him by continuing the mission of improving the lives of all Jamaicans," Christopher Zacca, president and CEO of Sagicor Group, said.

"Over the past 26 years, the Sagicor Sigma Run has become a beacon of hope to our society, raising over $650 million for numerous charities in health and education. Last staging alone broke records with an incredible $92 million, raised for the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts and the University Hospital of the West Indies Paediatric Unit," he continued.

He thanked everyone for donating over the years, and hopes this year's participation will only increase.

"To meet and exceed our target, we will need everybody stepping up and helping with this ambitious target. Every step taken, every dollar donated, brings us closer to creating a lasting impact on the lives of those who need it the most," he said.

This year's proceeds will benefit the Savanna-la-Mar Hospital, Danny Williams School for the Deaf, and the National Chest Hospital.

CEO of National Chest Hospital Dwayne Francis said it is an honour to be chosen as a beneficiary and saluted Sagicor for honouring Danny Williams at this year's staging.

"This will help in the purchasing of laboratory equipment, as well as the video-assisted thoracoscopic system. The National Chest Hospital has been around since the 1940s (and) we would have changed significantly since then," he said, expounding on the services offered at the hospital and the challenges of meeting the demands of the patients.

Senior Medical Officer at the Savanna-la-Mar Public General Hospital, Dr Suman Venus, said the hospital will benefit significantly from the funds raised as the hospital is experiencing bed shortages and other challenges.

"We are trying to expand our services. We want to get special equipment to clear these patients quickly. We are looking forward to a portable ultrasound and X-ray machine, and also the equipment needed for the operation room," he said.

The Danny Williams School of the Deaf's principal, Heidi-Ann Mitchel-Dillon, said the school is grateful for the Sagicor Sigma Run's aid as it will improve learning conditions at the institution.

This year's headline patrons include national Reggae Boyz' captain Andre Blake and two-time 400 metres hurdles World Championships bronze medallist Rushell Clayton.