Warner: Prayers keeping me alive

FORMER government minister, political leader and FIFA vice president Jack Warner said he spends his days while hospitalised for covid19 praying for forgiveness.

He made the comment in a statement Friday.

He said the people of TT are very forgiving and kind, and to live in a country where people are concerned for others, and eager and willing to give a helping hand, "is surely a gift and that can only come from God."

"Many times, in the quietude of the night, I lay on my bed thinking about my family and friends; this unfortunate circumstance called covid19 which has deprived them from visiting my bedside and then I read the messages, the texts of consolation, listen to the voice notes that were sent to me and I am humbled, tears come to my eyes because I realise that I am not alone.

"In gratitude I pray and thank God for all of you beautiful human beings with enormous hearts full of compassion."

Warner said one friend sent him a text saying “any energy you needlessly expend is directing that energy away from your healing.”

"So I spend my days praying, seeking God’s forgiveness to those I may have wronged and living with the hope that very soon this covid19 will pass not only for me but for the many who continue to suffer locally and abroad."

He reported he was still at Couva Hospital and he was doing much better. He added the medical staff is doing the best they can and that is all he can ask.

He also expressed thanks for everyone who had reached out to him.

"I must take this opportunity to express my heartfelt thanks and appreciation to the people of TT who took the time to text and even call to find out about my condition, having been affected by covid19."

He added: "The outpouring of love and concern by people from all walks of life really caught me by surprise and for that I wish to say a special thanks for the caring of which I am still the recipient."

He said regardless of what people say the people of TT are still a loving people with a deep sense of affinity for each other.

"And it dawned upon me that in spite of the many who attempt to divide us, caring for each other is embedded deep within our psyche and for that I will always be perpetually grateful."

Warner said his advice to the population is to be safe and to not put themselves in harm’s way.

"Because this is not the journey I would wish upon my worst enemy."

He reiterated his thanks to everyone who continued to pray for him and wish him well.

"Had it not been for your prayers, only God knows what my fate would have been but we have always been a praying nation and for that I am grateful and for that I wish to say thank you to one and to all."

Warner was reportedly hospitalised with covid19 on September 2.