The Tribune

By JEFFARAH GIBSON

Tribune Features Writer

jgibson@tribunemedia.net

During the Sapphire International’s recent dance benefit, members of the group did more than just sow the seed of financial aid, they were also able to uplift the spirit of a fellow liturgical dancer who was recently cured of a rare tumour.

The “My Testimony” dance benefit was hosted for the purpose of allowing Donaliquea Martin to share her story of how God was with her every step of the way during the most challenging time in her life.

In 2012, Mrs Martin discovered that she had a tumour the size of a grapefruit growing on her spine. After seeking medical attention, she underwent spinal surgery at John Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland, to have the tumour removed. The surgery was successful and Mrs Martin was cured.

To date, experts cannot clearly define the type of tumour Mrs Martin, had other than it had little properties in common with a salivary gland tumour.

Her case, according to doctors, is one out of three or four ever recorded worldwide. Mrs Martin’s case will be used for an in-depth study at John Hopkins University.

Cheryl Knowles, president of Sapphire International Girls Club, said she and Mrs Martin developed a friendship over the years, and after hearing of her ordeal she was moved to assist.

“Donaliquea and I grew up in the liturgical dance ministry over the years. Having knowledge of her medical condition didn’t sit pretty with me. I wanted to give her something, not just financial, but something that would uplift her spirit as she dealt with her healing process; something she would never forget. After much contemplation, I decided that my girls club would host a dance benefit concert for her because dance is her passion, a calling I know Donaliquea will carry in heart for the rest of her life. And her testimony will always be an inspiration for others and a faith builder,” she said.

Ms Knowles said the dance benefit, which was held at Transformation Ministries International, was a great success.

“The event was beyond successful. God showed up and He alone was glorified. The house was filled with all ages. People came with a heart to receive and most of all to give into the life of Donaliquea Martin. Participants and attendees enjoyed an anointed night filled with ministry from different dance groups and soloists from all across New Providence.

Our host, DJ Godson, kept the crowd on their toes as God was truly glorified. A special tribute to Donaliquea elevated the evening even higher, which led us into a prayer for healing for those in attendance. We ended the night celebrating with persons who gave their hearts to the Lord, which is the reason why Donaliquea ministered in dance for so many years,” she said.

Mrs Martin said she was humbled by the girls club’s gesture and felt truly blessed by the entire experience. Her faith in God has also increased drastically because she saw him open doors for her every step of the way.

“I am just so humbled by Sapphire’s initiative. When they brought it to me I cried and my husband and I were very moved by it all,” she said.