The following press release was sent to Wired868 by the friends and family of 14 year old Trinidad and Tobago chess olympiad and St Joseph’s Convent, Port of Spain student, Della-Marie Walcott:
The family and friends of Della-Marie Walcott would firstly like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the supporters and well wishers of Della-Marie during these trying times while she lies in a coma.
We would like to reaffirm that previous information regarding her condition did not originate from her parents and, unfortunately, one or two inaccuracies have been circulating.
Della-Marie, a 14 year old student of St Joseph’s Convent (Port of Spain), exudes confidence and brilliance. She is strong minded and has called the chess board her favoured arena for many years.
The 2013 CARIFTA junior chess champion has proudly represented Trinidad and Tobago at several regional and international chess tournaments, including bringing home gold and silver medals at the CAC and CARIFTA youth chess championships over the past seven years.
She has also represented the T&T women’s team at the World Chess Olympiad in Istanbul, Turkey and Tromso, Norway in 2012 and 2014 respectively.
This amazing young lady’s performances for the “Red, White and Black”, earned her nominations for the First Citizens Sports Foundation Youth Awards in 2011 and 2013 and even inspired her to give back to her community by volunteering as a chess trainer at the Credo Foundation (POS) in 2015.
Della-Marie, was diagnosed and had a tumour removed from her brain on 22 December 2015. The tumour was later tested and found to be benign (not cancerous).
The area of the brain affected was very small and her recovery required a secondary procedure. After this procedure was conducted, she slipped into a coma and has been in that condition ever since.
Her medical expenses while in ICU have been escalating and as such any assistance would be greatly appreciated.
The outpouring of support from Trinidad and Tobago and those abroad thus far have truly been humbling. Every little kind gesture, offer of support and prayer cannot be undervalued.
It is in these moments that solace can be found in something as simple as a hug or a smile. We continue to believe and smile with Trinidad and Tobago as we hope and pray for her recovery.
Anyone interested in assisting can make donations at https://www.gofundme.com/hyjvc2rr or contact Amiel Mohammed—Della Marie’s cousin—at 755-3734 for further information.
Editor’s Note: Wired868 urges readers to click HERE to offer financial assistance to Della-Marie Walcott.