Community

County mourns the loss of a beloved surgeon and philanthropist

Published

9 months ago

March 31, 2024

THE LOCAL community and beyond came together yesterday, on March 23 to bid farewell to Mr. Athula Withanage, a distinguished Clinical Director and Lead Clinician in General & Vascular Surgery at Withybush Hospital, whose journey ended on the 1st of March 2024.

The funeral service, held at Parc Gwyn Crematorium in Narbeth, was both a somber and a celebratory reflection of his remarkable life and contributions.

Born in Gonagalapura, Sri Lanka, Mr. Withanage’s illustrious career in medicine was marked by his compassionate care, surgical expertise, and dedication to mentoring the next generation of surgeons. His approach to medicine and surgery was not just about healing the body but also about nurturing the spirit of his patients and colleagues alike.

Beyond his professional achievements, Mr. Withanage was a man of profound creativity, making significant strides in both literature and theatre. As an accomplished writer and actor, he shared his talents generously, enriching the cultural fabric of his community.

Mr. Withanage’s legacy is carried forward by his family, including his wife Nelum, his children Triona, Shane, and Dylan, his son-in-law Rajindra, daughter-in-law Sumudu, and his beloved grandchildren Kian, Liam, Shian, Riyon, Roshan, and Resan.

His role as a devoted family man stood at the core of his being, mirroring the love and dedication he showed in every aspect of his life.

The procession on Saturday began from his residence in Prendergast Haverfordwest at 11:25 am, making a symbolic final drive past the Withybush General Hospital, acknowledging his 31 years of selfless service before reaching the crematorium.

This gesture reflected the deep connection between Mr. Withanage and the institution he served with distinction.

The service was not only a local event but also a global one, with the funeral live-streamed to accommodate those who could not attend in person, including international viewers, notably from Sri Lanka.

This digital bridge allowed for a global gathering of those touched by Mr. Withanage’s life and work, emphasising the wide-reaching impact of his kindness and professional excellence.

Following the service, the gathering at Hotel Plas Hyfryd in Narbeth offered a space for reflections and shared memories, reinforcing the community’s solidarity and shared loss.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations to Withybush General Hospital, a testament to Mr. Withanage’s enduring commitment to healthcare and the wellbeing of others.

These contributions will support the hospital in continuing to provide care that reflects the standards he set throughout his career.

As we reflect on Mr. Withanage’s life, we are reminded of the indelible mark he leaves on both the medical and broader communities. His legacy of compassion, dedication, and boundless achievement will continue to inspire and influence many.

Mr. Withanage’s life was a beacon of what it means to serve others with love and excellence, and he will be deeply missed.

Community

Castle Ward Pupils Lead Anti-Social Behaviour Art Mural Project

Published

9 mins ago

December 19, 2024

Tom Sinclair

HAVERFORDWEST HIGH VC SCHOOL welcomed a visit from County Councillor Thomas Tudor, who expressed his full support for the pupils’ efforts in tackling anti-social behaviour through an innovative Art Mural Project.

Councillor Tudor, representing the Castle Ward, highlighted the significance of the project, noting the area’s past struggles with anti-social behaviour in central commercial zones. “Engaging with pupils to address this issue through art is an extremely exciting venture,” he said.

The project has received a boost with £750 in funding secured from the Youth Bank initiative. Councillor Tudor commended the Youth Workers for their successful funding application, describing it as “a great achievement.”

The mural, spearheaded by pupils from the Youth Room and Haverfordwest High VC School, aims to inspire and engage the community while addressing a vital issue. “This exciting and innovative project will undoubtedly capture the imagination of those involved and reach out to all concerned,” Councillor Tudor added.

The initiative is set to bring a creative approach to community engagement and highlight the power of art in fostering positive change.

Photo caption: Castle Ward inspiration: Councillor Thomas Tudor supports the Art Mural Project (Pic: Suppled)

Community

Tips for coping with Mental Health challenges this Christmas

Published

2 hours ago

December 19, 2024

Tom Sinclair

CHRISTMAS is often hailed as the “most wonderful time of the year,” but for many, it can bring stress, loneliness, or financial strain, impacting mental health in various ways. Mind Cymru has shared advice to help those struggling during the festive season.

Why Christmas Can Be Challenging

The holiday season can feel overwhelming for numerous reasons:

Stress and Expectations: The pressure to celebrate while managing personal challenges.
Difficult Memories: Reflecting on the past or worrying about the new year.
Financial Strain: Rising costs can make the season harder to navigate.

Sue O’ Leary, Director of Mind Cymru, explains:
“Christmas is a time to celebrate, but it can also magnify feelings—sometimes in a challenging way. It’s important to remember it’s okay to feel this way, and there is support available.”

Tips for Coping

Looking After Yourself

Be patient with yourself—it’s normal to find Christmas difficult.
Set boundaries and say no to unhelpful activities.
Take time out to focus on non-Christmas-related things.
Remember: the season won’t last forever.

Talking to Others

Let people know if you’re struggling and how they can help.
Access online communities like Mind’s Side by Side for support.
Communicate your preferences for festive activities.

Managing Relationships

Plan responses to uncomfortable questions in advance.
Agree on budgets or schedules beforehand to ease tensions.
Create distance if you’re with people you’d rather avoid.

Planning Ahead

Prepare items that help you feel comfortable, especially in unfamiliar settings.
Avoid triggering places or activities if possible.
Make a list of services with their Christmas opening hours.
Ensure you have enough medication to last through the holidays.
Plan something enjoyable for after Christmas to look forward to.

Where to Find Support

If you’re struggling, help is available:

Mind Helplines: Visit Mind Helplines (closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day).
Side by Side Online Community: Available 24/7 at Side by Side.
Samaritans: Call 116 123 (freephone). The Welsh language line is open 7pm–11pm daily.
SHOUT Crisis Text Service: Text SHOUT to 85258, available 24/7.
Coping with Money Worries: Visit the Mind website for advice.

Christmas doesn’t have to be perfect, and it’s okay to prioritize your well-being. Mind Cymru reminds everyone that support is always within reach.

Community

Cones now gone as Johnston gas works finally completed

Published

2 hours ago

December 19, 2024

Tom Sinclair

WALES & WEST Utilities has announced the successful completion of essential gas network upgrades in the Johnston area of Pembrokeshire.

The project aimed to ensure the continued safe and reliable supply of gas to homes and businesses, supporting the community’s needs for generations to come. In collaboration with Pembrokeshire County Council, the company implemented traffic management measures to minimize disruption during the work.

Adam Smith, who managed the project for Wales & West Utilities, expressed gratitude to local residents for their patience and highlighted the significance of the upgrades:

“We are pleased to finish this work and would like to thank the local community for bearing with us as we carried it out.

“While most of the gas network is underground and out of sight, it plays a central role in the daily lives of people across the wider area. Whether it’s heating your home, making the family dinner, or having a hot bath, we understand how important it is for your gas supply to be safe, reliable, and there when you need it.

“This work was essential to keep the gas flowing to local homes and businesses today and to make sure the gas network is ready to transport hydrogen and biomethane, so we can all play our part in a green future.”

Wales & West Utilities provides gas emergency and pipeline services to over 7.5 million people across Wales and the southwest of England. If you smell gas or suspect carbon monoxide, they urge you to call 0800 111 999 immediately for assistance at any time of day or night.