Isola Mamby, a remarkable centenarian hailing from Bellas Gate, recently commemorated her 107th birthday on the 15th of March. Regarded as a cherished figure within the community, Mamby attributes her exceptional longevity to what her daughter, Dr. Jennifer Mamby-Alexander, characterizes as “adherence to a healthy lifestyle”. Mamby’s dedication to consuming organically grown foods and fruits such as soursop, jackfruit, cherries, lemons, yam, ginger, pomegranate, guava, and mangoes has undoubtedly played a pivotal role in her well-being.
Throughout her lifetime, Mamby has steadfastly committed herself to physical fitness, engaging in regular exercise and daily walks, even up to the age of 103. Despite contending with a battle against COVID-19 at the age of 104, she managed to overcome the illness without the aid of a vaccine. Her spiritual sustenance has been derived from the Seventh Day Adventist Church in Bellas Gate, serving as a source of comfort and guidance.
Raised by Shedwell and Henrietta Lindo, Mamby was instilled with the importance of consuming locally sourced produce and goat’s milk on their family farm in Bellas Gate. Her career in nursing, which commenced with training at Kingston Public and Jubilee Hospitals, eventually led her to become a registered nurse. Her passion for midwifery and the operating theatre propelled her to work as a nurse both in Jamaica and the USA.
Notwithstanding her remarkable journey, Mamby has encountered challenges in her adulthood, notably a legal dispute with the Jamaica Public Service (JPS). In 1962, her parents were proud homeowners of a residence in Hope Pastures, the initial Jamaican residential community to be equipped with underground electrical services. The community’s disagreement with JPS regarding the retention of underground electricity ultimately impacted the area’s aesthetic appeal and quality of life, resulting in disconnections and hardships for residents.
Tragically, Mamby sustained a leg injury following a fall at her residence during a power outage caused by JPS disconnecting the underground electrical supply. Dr. Mamby-Alexander conveyed her family’s exasperation with the situation, highlighting the enduring hardships faced by numerous residents as a consequence of JPS’s decision.
In the face of adversity, Mamby remains resolute in her pursuit of justice, exemplifying unwavering determination and resilience. Despite bearing the weight of her years and confronting various challenges, she continues to be buoyed by the unwavering support of her devoted family and friends. Her extraordinary life story stands as a testament to the tenacity and fortitude of the Bellas Gate community.
As we celebrate Isola Mamby’s astounding milestone, let us also contemplate the impact she has had on the community and the invaluable lessons her life imparts. Her unyielding spirit and commitment to healthy living serve as a source of inspiration for us all. Let us not overlook the profound influence she exerts on Bellas Gate, a living embodiment of human spirit’s resilience and strength.