The United States Congress has recognized former Grenada Ambassador Dr. Lamuel Stanislaus as a “true hero in our society,” as the erstwhile envoy celebrates his 95th birthday.
The ailing Stanislaus celebrated his birthday on April 22 in Brooklyn, with close friends and relatives.
In commemoration of Stanislaus’ birthday, and recorded in the United States Congressional Record earlier this week, U.S. Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke told the U.S. House of Representatives that Stanislaus’ “exemplary work, done as the UN Ambassador of Grenada, furthermore cements his legacy, contributing to the well-being of not only his country but [to] the host of 11 [actually 14] other small commonwealth countries; in particular the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) in which I deeply express my gratitude.
“Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor that I ask [that] we recognize Dr. Lamuel A. Stanislaus not only for his achievements he’s done for the global community but, most importantly, [for] being a family man, a father to his children, a loving husband and a true hero in our society,” said Clarke, who represents the 9th Congressional District in Brooklyn.
Born in Petite Martinique, Grenada’s smaller sister island – the other is Carriacou – Stanislaus, a retired dentist by profession, has been the recipient of numerous professional, civic and political awards, which include the Insignia of Commander of the British Empire from her Majesty the Queen of England, (CBE); The Lifetime Achievement Award from the District Attorney of Brooklyn; and a Honorary Degree of Doctor of Humane Letters from St. George’s University.
Clarke noted that, on Feb. 7, 2016, Dr. Stanislaus was recognized under Grenada’s National Hero’s legislation and was named Knight Commander, “which provides for him to be referred to as Sir Lamuel – KCNG.”
New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo also said he was “delighted to send greetings and heartfelt congratulations” to Stanislaus, as he commemorated “the auspicious occasion of your 95th birthday.”
In his letter, Cuomo wrote that Stanislaus’ “special milestone provides an opportunity for neighbors, friends and family to pay tribute to an extraordinary individual who has led a full life and who continues to make the most of each day.
“You have witnessed remarkable changes during your lifetime and, through many decades, you have shaped our nation,” Cuomo said. “I applaud your contribution to your family, your community, and to New York State.
“Your longevity inspires all who have been fortunate to know and love you, and I am honored to extend my best wishes for a memorable 95th birthday celebration,” he added.
Dr. Stanislaus told Caribbean Life Thursday night that “you feel thankful to be alive.”
He recited a prayer that he said he frequently says: “Growing old / speak with kind causes no tears / do some good along the way / do a little today / let no good be marred / let no duty seem too hard / in all things do your best / and to God you leave the rest.”
Stanislaus said that “these are some of the things that sustain me,” disclosing that, health wise, he’s “not ok. I’m suffering with the ravages of cancer of the prostate and cancer of the bones.
“You see, I have to keep trying,” he said in the exclusive interview. “But, with my faith in God and [with] the help of my family, I’m lingering on with a lot of hope. I’m not giving up.”
When asked if he should reveal the nature of his illness to the public, Stanislaus retorted: “It’s God’s sickness. I’m not ashamed to say this.”
Stanislaus complimented Derek Ventour, a premiere Grenadian-born entertainment promoter in Brooklyn, for being instrumental in soliciting the U.S. Congressional and New York State’s recognitions.
“Derek has been very wonderful to me,” he said. “He has been keeping me informed [about developments in the community]. It means a lot to me.”
