DailyMale Becomes Newest Registered Charity
[Written by Patrick Bean]
Nearly a year from the date of its inception DailyMale Free Men’s Health Clinic recently received the best possible anniversary present, when it was officially granted Bermuda charity status, as of February 1.
The brainchild of world renowned urologist Dr Jonathan Makajuola and Jade Robinson, a Bermudian medical student with a Masters degree in Public Health, DailyMale debuted last February in concurrence with World Cancer Day as a pilot programme with free offerings of testing for prostate cancer and cardiovascular disease.
The programme was unveiled as one designed for members of Bermuda’s mature male population, who may have been uninsured, under-insured, had not had formal contact with or have in their employ a qualified physician or may have harboured reluctance at formalising such a relationship.
Both Dr Makajuola and Ms Robinson were thrilled to have received confirmation of DailyMale as the Island’s newest charity.
“Gaining charity status for DailyMale is the culmination of a year’s hard work,” said Dr Makajuola of the achievement. “We’d like to thank all of the volunteers, our supporters, our funders over the past 12 months, for this would not be possible without you.
“We were able to make a positive impact on significant number of men’s lives and help to improve awareness regarding prostate cancer and cardiovascular disease in high risk groups in Bemuda.”
Ms Robinson was likewise pleased with the latest development, noting how the efforts of the clinic had received global recognition, with Dr Makajuola having been honoured in London, England at last year’s Caribbean Global Awards, capturing the Best in Health and Social Services award, mostly for his part in founding DailyMale.
“Seeing the success of DailyMale has truly been outstanding,” said Ms Robinson. “From being recognized globally to impacting the local community, I have never been more proud to be Bermudian.
“Thank you Bermuda for coming together for such a great initiative that can improve healthcare in Bermuda and generations to come.”
The designation legally allows for the organisation to openly solicit funds from the public, Government and the private sector.
There is added hope that DailyMale will be able to introduce a purpose built bus to allow for a mobile screening facility that can set up at various parts of the Island to further engage those at high risk.
Additional stated goals are to offer expanded services relative to heart disease an mental health, as well as providing prostate-specific [PSA] testing for more than 400 men.
“Now that we’re a charity we can hopefully raise more funding for our activities, that include Bermuda’s first screening bus,” said Dr Makajuola. “We hope that we will be able to continue with these activities over 2024-2025.
“We hope to announce some exciting partnerships over the next few months.
“Watch out Bermuda, we’re only just getting started.”
Last year saw the clinic stage monthly pop-ups at various, local grass-roots organisations, with the Bermuda Industrial Union and local sporting clubs, including Somerset Cricket Club, St George’s Cricket Club, Bailey’s Bay Cricket Club, Pembroke Hamilton Club and Warwick Workmen’s Club, affording operating space free of charge.
With charity status attained Dr Makajuola hinted at the potential for DailyMale to play an even more significant role in positively impacting the physical well-being of the local population.
Said Dr Makajuola: “Our aim is to offer free prostate cancer screening to all men in Bermuda regardless of ability to pay.”
DailyMale will be releasing new screening dates very soon. For further information on the clinic’s activities potential clients can visit the DailyMale website: dailymaleclinic.com, contact via email info@dailymaleclinic.com or @dailymaleclinic on Instagram.
Well done. Everyone involved with DailyMale have put in so much work educating and helping the public over the last year. It’s awesome to see this status granted and the community will benefit greatly. All best, Dr. Jonathan, Jade and the volunteers.