Tony Kelly resident Diabetes expert
The caption or heading means just that as some especially in Britain will know of the women’s weekly magazine Take A Break which was first published in March 1990 and has managed to still be in existence although I must confess to never having read an issue. One cannot miss it on the shelves of newspaper outlets/stands and in shops and supermarkets.
Then there is too the well-known advertising slogan for the chocolate bar, ‘Have a Kit Kat, take a break’. That leads me on to let the readers know that I will, due to other commitments be taking a short break and will update you when I am able to sometime in mid-December. A case of recharging my batteries, so to speak, which we all need to do periodically.
I would be failing in my duty if I did not make mention in this article that this month of October, Britain observes Black History Month which officially started in 1987 in London as part of African Jubilee Year. Dr. Maulana Karenga from the United States of America was invited to an event at County Hall to mark the contributions of Black people throughout history and Ghanaian born Akyaaba Addai-Sebo had the vision to start what is now a set period in the nation’s history with a diverse range of events. Some would argue that Black people observe, celebrate, value and recognize every day of the year as one which is Black History and are not keen on a month being singled out for our existence. That debate will always be heard but I invite readers to visit the online website www.blackhistorymonth.org.uk and that applies also to White people as it is truly an eye opener. There is as usual a 75-page printed Black History month magazine packed with information most of which is not taught in British schools despite ongoing protestations for many years to include it as part of the school curriculum. The magazine is also available on the aforementioned website. I firmly believe that the teaching of Black History in all schools will happen sooner rather than later as it is long overdue for the benefit of this and future generations. I invite readers to write to their MPs and insist that they make representation in Parliament for that to happen.
In conclusion taking breaks just like one does at school, whilst working or even watching a live performance whether it be sports, the performing arts or a meeting or conference is of paramount importance.
Looking forward to continue my flair for creative writing after my break with more exciting articles for you to read and digest.
London born Tony Kelly of Jamaican parents grew up in Jamaica and returned to live in Birmingham in 1979.
He is a graduate of Mico Teachers’ College and taught in Kingston high schools prior to working for 30+ years as a middle manager in central and local government with an emphasis on equity, equality, diversity and inclusion. He has a masters’ degree in socio-legal studies from the university of Birmingham.
For over a decade Tony has volunteered as a diabetes ambassador firstly for Diabetes UK and now for the National Health Service - Birmingham and Solihull Clinical Commissioning Group. A multi-award winner doing a yearly average of 150 health and well-being events, locally, nationally and internationally focusing on type 2 diabetes. He was diagnosed with this medical condition 18 years ago. However with a combination of physical activity and diet he has never taken medication thus proving with the right mindset and discipline it can be achieved.
As a diabetes advocate/activist Tony will continue delivering the message of healthy options to readers of CaribDirect.com .
2 comments
As a new reader of Caribdirect, I have thoroughly enjoyed reading these articles by Tony Kelly. Each one has been informative, insightful and yes…entertaining too. Most of all, they have provided me with an additional layer of connection with the Caribbean community, and a way of celebrating the talents and achievements of what it means to be of Caribbean heritage. But whilst I will miss these regular reads, I agree that there are some seasons when we all need to stop and recharge our batteries in readiness for the next season. So, I say thank you Mr Kelly for a great read these past few months, and I look forward to your return to these pages. Walk good!
I am so informed by Tony’s writing. Such an eloquent and knowledgeable person. Well donevTony