Apr 15, 1921

An orthopedic surgeon who was key to containing of the polio epidemic that hit Jamaica in the 1950's. Sir John Golding made immense contribution to the disabled community. His work was done with love and compassion for the disabled. Professor Golding’s work stretched beyond providing conventional medical care and conducting research to include many altruistic endeavours. Much of his work was concerned with the welfare and rehabilitation of the disabled particularly those affected by poliomyelitis.

He helped the disabled to continue their lives without the feeling of inadequacy. For handicapped children who were unable to attend school, he opened the Hope Valley Experimental School which was the first and only school in the Caribbean to integrate disabled and normally able children. Other initiatives included a company to employ the disabled, a farm for the handicapped, a Cheshire village a fairground to employ the handicapped and to raise money for a rehabilitation centre, a prosthetics and orthotics centre, a physiotherapy schooland a hospice.

In addition, Professor Golding initiated the introduction of safe driving laws and legal aid for the injured. He also opened the Hospice Home Care and the Hospice Pain Care Centre where he took care of the terminally ill free of charge.He started the 1966 Polio Games to provide an avenue for physical exercise as part of his rehabilitation plan. This led to the establishment of the Special Olympics.Sir John Golding has received many accolades for his commendable contributions to the field of medicine and work with those affected by poliomyelitis.