The whole story : My Love for Jamaica – Helping Bradley’s Community in Sav-la-Mar

Hello, my name is John McConway from Purchase, New York, USA.

Back in 1988, I was a young man in my early twenties looking for a warm escape. My friends and I randomly picked Jamaica, and that trip changed my life forever.

From the moment I arrived, I was welcomed by the warmth and kindness of the Jamaican people. On our drive through the countryside to the resort, every smile and wave made me feel like I belonged. Around that same time, Bob Marley’s Legend album had just been released, and through it, I discovered reggae—music that still speaks to my soul today.

During that first trip, I met a resort security guard named Bradley Cunningham. He took me under his wing and showed me the real Jamaica. He brought me to his hometown of Sav-la-Mar, guided me on motorcycle rides through western Jamaica, and treated me like family. That friendship grew into something special and lasting.

Over the years, I’ve returned to Jamaica many times—1990 (three times!), 1996, 2001, 2020 (with my son, Tyler), and most recently in 2025. Each visit deepened my love for the island and its people. My wife, Vanessa, and I often explored the island by motorcycle, soaking in the freedom and beauty.

On my most recent trip, I was in a serious motorcycle accident—breaking my collarbone, fracturing ribs, and suffering a collapsed lung. Strangely enough, that painful experience brought me even closer to the country and its people, whose compassion and care helped me heal.

Years ago, my good friend Stuart Feldman and his wife Diane sponsored Bradley to visit the U.S. for the first time. We took him to a New York Giants game, showed him his first snowstorm, and shared meals and laughter with friends who came to meet him. More recently, I had the honor of hosting Bradley at my home for a barbecue in his honor.

Bradley and his family are now close personal friends and remain close to my heart. His daughter, Sashani now lives in Baltimore as a nurse with her husband and two children. His wife, Pauline, travels between Canada and Jamaica, while Bradley and his son, Bradley Jr., continue to live and work in Sav-la-Mar, where he drives a taxi and is an active member of his local church.

Sadly, Hurricane Melissa has devastated Jamaica—especially Sav-la-Mar. Many families in Bradley’s community have lost their homes, belongings, and means of survival.

That’s why I’ve started this fundraiser to help the people of Sav-la-Mar rebuild their lives. Every donation—no matter how small—will go directly toward food, clean water, clothing, school supplies, and housing. I will personally oversee all funds to ensure that every penny goes straight to those in need. I will transfer the money to Bradley piecemeal ($500 at a time) via Zelle or Venmo. I will then consult with Bradley to direct some of the funds to people in need and provide video of projects where the funds end up. Some of the money will go to help rebuild Bradley‘s roof and the interior of his house.

Jamaica has given me some of the most beautiful memories and friendships of my life. If this island has ever touched your heart, I ask you to join me in giving back. Together, we can help this community rise again with the strength and love that Jamaica has always shown the world.

Thank you, and One Love.

— John McConway