Rasbert Turner, STAR Writer

Spanish Town

The Spanish Town Resident Magistrate's Court yesterday touched the life of 10-year-old Cassandra Smith in a very special way after Senior Resident Magistrate Lorna Errar urged persons present in the courtroom to make a contribution towards the youngster's $18 million medical bill.

Several police personnel, lawyers, clerks of court, probation officers, accused persons, complainants and anyone who could ably assist, all donated whatever they could, in a noble response to the RM's request.

The story of Cassandra, who suffers from cirrhosis, a chronic disease of the liver, was highlighted in last Saturday's Star.

Cassandra needs an $18 million operation to resolve her medical condition and allow her to live a full and normal life, a dream her mother, Patricia Grey, says she would want to realise.

Since The Star published the story, several persons have acted on their desire to assist the youngster in offsetting the cost of her surgery.

Speaking with the newspaper yesterday, Grey said the assistance she has been receiving since last Saturday has strengthened her hopes. She stated she is grateful for the prayer and contributions she has received so far and is optimistic that the $18 million mark will be reached in time.

Grey also took the opportunity to thank RM Errar and everyone who was present in the courtroom.

She also notified the public that the Bank of Nova Scotia account highlighted in last Saturday's article had been closed and apologised for the oversight. She said that donations should be made to the National Commercial Bank, (NCB) account number 471027650. The name on the account is St Catherine Parish Development Committee.

The account is based at NCB's Spanish Town branch; however, deposits can be made at any of the bank's islandwide branches.