By George M. O. Williams
Sierra Leone – January 23, 2025: The Rose Croix Masons have donated funds to the Sickle Cell Society of Sierra Leone and the Fund for the Needy as part of their ongoing charitable initiatives.
Each organization received Le 25,000 (NLe 25,000.00), transferred directly into their operational accounts at Rokel Commercial Bank.
Speaking at the presentation, Past Sovereign Grand Inspector General (SGJG) and Deputy for the Scottish Constitution, Brother Joe A. Thomas, 33rd Degree, explained that the funds were raised during the group’s annual social event, held every second Friday of January.
He noted that it has long been the practice of the Rose Croix Masons to channel proceeds from their social activities into charitable causes.
“This is something we have been doing for years. After our social activities, we always ensure that the remaining funds are used to support institutions that are serving humanity,” Thomas said.
Receiving the donation on behalf of the Sickle Cell Society, Chairman Professor Gibrilla Fadlu-Deen expressed gratitude, describing the support as both timely and meaningful.
He disclosed that the Society operates two sickle cell centres—one in the western area and another in the east—through which thousands of patients have benefited from medication, laboratory services, and hospital admission assistance.
Professor Fadlu-Deen highlighted the rising number of sickle cell patients in Sierra Leone, noting that further studies are needed to determine the exact prevalence. He said admissions at the centres have increased significantly, largely due to patients’ inability to afford treatment costs.
“This donation is a worthy venture, and we will ensure it is used to support patients who are in need,” he assured.
He added that the Society currently supports over 1,000 patients with assistance from partner organizations, particularly in the area of medication. He emphasized that sickle cell disease, a genetic condition, is more prevalent among children, and while many used to die before reaching 21 due to lack of treatment, advancements in medication now allow patients to live longer lives.
Speaking on behalf of the Fund for the Needy, Connaught Hospital Referral Coordinator Sahr Brima Yokie explained that the initiative focuses on assisting patients who cannot meet their medical expenses.
He revealed that about 70 percent of patients at Connaught Hospital struggle to pay their bills. Beneficiaries are categorized into three groups: patients with no relatives, those incapacitated or unable to continue payments, and patients completely abandoned.
Yokie added that the Fund plans to extend its support to hospitals across the country.
Senior Hospital Secretary Tejan B. Bayoh also expressed appreciation, noting that Connaught Hospital values organizations that prioritize support for the poor and destitute. He encouraged the Rose Croix Masons to continue extending such humanitarian gestures to other institutions.
The event was attended by Inspector General of the English Constitution, Brother Ivan D.A. Carrol, 33rd Degree, and District Recorder of the English Constitution, Brother Claudius Ola Taylor.