LIMA STAFFORD-CAMPBELL

What is the significance of this piece for you or your family?  

I am from a small island called Carriacou, Grenada. Carriacou is about 13 square miles with a population of about 6000 people. We have beautiful beaches and are known for being one of the world's leading producers of Nutmeg, which is an amazing spice. Growing up, I enjoyed going to Paradise beach every week. We would play soccer, cricket, and cook some amazing food. The beach was always relaxing for me and was a good time to hang out with family and friends.  

How did you (and or your family) move to the U.S.? Why did you move to the U.S.? 

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My family moved to the US on July 4, 2001. My sister Marisa was diagnosed with Sickle Cell disease and Lupus and struggled to get good health care in Grenada so my parents thought it would be good to move all of us to Brooklyn, NY since they were back and forth with Marisa a lot prior to us moving. Unfortunately, my sister did pass away Nov. 12, 2007, due to complications with fighting both diseases. 

What does it mean for you to share these stories with the community here at Cortland (and beyond)? 

It means a lot to share my story because I come from a tiny island and overcame a lot of challenges growing up especially with moving to a fast past city in Brooklyn NY to moving to Cortland NY for College and now working at the institution. I also met my husband at SUNY Cortland and he is from Jamaica. I love sharing our stories because we have Caribbean roots and don’t find too many with our background in this area