Brother Ronald

Our third featured elder friend is Jamaican native brother Ronald, a self-taught solo flute player, cancer survivor and long-term resident of Crown Heights.

Born in Kingston, Jamaica, Brother Ronald immigrated to the US in the 60’s and pursued a career as a paralegal.

A cancer survivor, brother Ronald also suffered from multiple fractures in his legs and lower body after a terrible car accident while crossing the street on Brooklyn Ave a few years ago. While recovering at the Marcus Garvey Nursing home, he received much encouragement and support from the staff during his 8-month long rehabilitation. Being able to walk again and grateful to be alive, brother Ronald now brings comfort and joy to the elderly residents of Marcus Garvey and playing the flute for them every Sunday morning.

Brother Ronald also lent his musical talent during the recording of our Christmas CD Tribute to Seniors “Heaven on Earth”, where you can hear him play the flute on a few tracks such as Joy to the World and Waltz of the Flowers. The Little Brothers – Friends of the Elderly is grateful for his participation in this project that brought the joy of the holidays through music to seniors suffering from isolation and sickness.

Ronald is a gifted solo Flute Player that started to play in the Regiment Army band since his early 20’s.

Last but not least, brother Ronald also has a passion and a remarkable gift for painting and crafting lamps out of wine bottles. Those are amazing works of art and we are honored to share a few pictures of Ronald’s creations below.

Thank you so much brother, Ronald, for the difference you are making through music and sharing your gifts with our diverse and aging community.