Doc, I knew this day would come but I hoped that it would be many years later. Over a year ago just around this time my dad passed on and you told me “Ashie, ka fo (don’t cry) you still have a dad because I’m here.” 

You were my special doctor and second Dad, who gave me tremendous advice and care when it came to problems, right down to cutting my finger or having a boil. 

I got to know Doctor T.O McCarthy in 1982 at Aburi Girls through his first born Angeley who became my good friend and sister from different parents. This in turn led both families to become very united and tight-knit.

Giving birth at your hospital made me feel very special and secure. I admired you so much that even my children looked up to you as a firm rock. 

I wouldn’t be able to mention all the memories but I want to say, Daddy a very big thank you to you.

Doc, you will always have a special place in my heart. I will forever miss you and your welcoming smile every time you see me.

Inevitably tears will flow but I know you are in a better place, and I thank God for letting you be a part of my life.

We did have a chat at the beginning of this year and I probably should have realized it was you saying your goodbye, I was obviously in denial and refused to listen, I even went as far as arguing with you on the phone about it that “Please don’t say that.” In relation to you leaving us behind, now I know you had wanted me to understand that the good LORD knows best.

Doctor McCarthy, Daddy, “Ya Wɔ jogbaŋŋ”

From Ashiokai (Ashie) Opoku nee Dowuona.