The Fenian Project

The Fenian Project, an effort to alleviate problems that disabled persons in the Carib Territory face, was born out of the example of Mr. Fenian Frederick.

Mr. Fenian Frederick is a 27-year-old paraplegic Kalinago. His physical condition is a result of an automobile collision in 1999 at the age of 22. He has never been to a rehabilitation facility for this. Resources are limited in Dominica, and it is extremely difficult for disabled persons to adapt to the society and rugged environment.

Although at first he lived with his mother and a sister, they long ago abandoned his care. Instead, SMP Nurse Sylvie Warrington visits him on a semi-daily basis, providing him with much needed care. Mr. Frederick is too weak and is unfamiliar with transfer techniques to get into the wheelchair donated to him by students. As he lives in a wooden house, without running water or electricity, there is little reason for him to use the chair independently.

Mr. Frederick is a pleasant, polite, soft-spoken, and very shy person. He can read and write and savors any access to magazines. He spends most of his life in bed on a hill that overlooks the Atlantic Ocean in Marigot, Dominica.

SMP is dedicated to improving Mr. Frederick’s quality of life. Ongoing projects include upgrading of his home by providing basics such as electricity and running water. We intend to construct a small patio or porch where he can spend some time outside, yet remain on his property. In addition, we hope to organize a trip in the near future for him and Nurse Sylvie Warrington to Miami to have him undergo adequate training and rehabilitation.

Although Mr. Frederick’s life has improved dramatically as a result of SMP’s efforts, there is much more that can be done. His case is one out of many; there are plenty of disabled persons in the Carib Territory and in other areas of Dominica that can benefit hugely from our contributions. Thus, The Fenian Project extends beyond the scope of Mr. Frederick himself and actually intends to touch the lives of many.

If you are interested in donating to The Fenian Project, please see Donating to SMP.