He languished in hospital for eight months, shrunken and paralysed but when he was cremated yesterday, accident victim Chaitram “Kenny” Rampersad looked like a prince.
Even though he died a shadow of his former self having lost more than 150 pounds after four cars ran over him last March, near Grand Bazaar, Valsayn, Rampersad, appeared to be at peace. The accident left him paralysed from the neck down.
No one was ever arrested in connection with the accident and the family hopes they will one day get some form of justice. Rampersad was struck by four cars while crossing the road. He died last week at the San Fernando General Hospital even though the family never gave up hope that he would walk again.
Mourners who attended the funeral at St Georges Street, New Grant home, said he looked like his former self. His face was no longer gaunt and it appeared he had a smile on his lips.
His mother Mohenee, who cared for him in the months after his accident, caressed his face. He wore a white and gold kurta with a headpiece. Mohenee never got justice as the motorists who ran over Rampersad, never came forward. None of the insurance companies ever helped and it was generous members of the public who assisted as she struggled to buy adult diapers, medication and liquid nutrients for her son.
Sister Christine Boodoo broke down in tears as she recalled that Rampersad’s nickname was Mr Handsome. “He was mostly known as the handsome one. He was hardworking, diligent and a loving father to his daughter. he never gave up and even after he was paralysed he would still give kisses to my mother and give her a smile,” Christine recalled.
Rampersad’s ex-wife, Surujdaye Jagroop, placed flowers in his casket as she performed aarti. Their daughter Jayda also offered red roses to him. Officiating Pundit Mukesh Maharaj urged mourners to learn a lesson from Rampersad’s life story.
“Do not waste opportunities in life. Time is ticking away. Man looks to blame time, karma and actions for their situation but who will you blame for Kenny’s situation?” Maharaj asked.
Saying it was God’s decision to take Rampersad’s life, Maharaj thanked the scores of Good Samaritans who came to Rampersad’s aid.