From one eye Doctor to another – Dr. Junior Bacchus

I remember it as if it were yesterday. I had just arrived from Germany to see the clinic where I was going to work as Consultant Ophthalmologist. I was taken to see Junior, who was then conducting clinic at the then Kingstown General Hospital.{{more}}

He greeted me with enthusiasm and pointed out to me in his (as I would later learn) matter of fact way, what needed to be restructured and fixed at the Hospital. He was very passionate. He had the habit of calling me “young blood”. Junior was always jovial and warm and even though we sometimes had our differences, he always made an effort to engage me in deep conversation on matters of the eye, whenever we met.

When my wife went to play his beloved sport tennis, he would always ask for me and convey his greetings, inviting me to join them.

My biggest regret is that we never got to form The Eye Association we often spoke about. I promise to further the idea that we shared on the future development of quality eye care in SVG.

I am deeply saddened by your passing. Junior, you will be missed, not only by all Vincentians, but also by the eye care community. Your contribution to eye care in St. Vincent is unquestionable and I have heard many say that you were the first one to prescribe their glasses.

On behalf of my family and the staff of Beachmont Eye Institute, I wish you peace. Our condolences also go out to Deborah, Khalil and Melissa Bacchus and your extended family. Farewell, my friend and colleague.

Dr Kenneth Onu is a resident Consultant Ophthalmologist at the Beachmont Eye Institute/Eyes R Us Send questions to: Beachmont@gmail.com

Tel: 784 456-1210