‘Because you are with me’, an eye-opening journey into the life of Felix Henderson

He is a household name in Dominica primarily for his accomplishments in the public sphere as a radio broadcaster par excellence but now fans, friends – even those who were very close to him – are being given the opportunity to delve into the innermost parts of Felix Henderson’s life and discover his real story.

The 253-page autobiography of Dominican radio personality, producer, and cultural icon Felix Henderson, entitled ‘Because you are with me’ presents a very candid recount of his trials and tribulations, the journey from humble beginnings to success, and his deep-rooted spirituality. It was launched on October 16, 2020 at the Dominica Public Service Union (DPSU).

The book, takes you on an emotional ride and  features compelling pieces of Henderson’s struggles, the road to his career and his quest for justice.

Henderson’s longtime friend, Tim Durand, who spoke during the launch, credited his colleague for being one of the foremost proponents and contributors to the promotion and development of the creole language in Dominica, as well as for his  journalistic exploits, his amazingly creative and  humorous advertisements and his educational and humanitarian work.

Durand provided an insight into Henderson’s vision for the continued promotion and development of the creole language on the island. He said Henderson had a vision and certain aspirations for the creole language that he wants to see take effect and bear fruit.

“Felix is exhorting the  people who are involved in continuing what he started to ensure that they maintain, and  perhaps improve, the quality of the work that he did as he has always been very conscious of the quality of his work. It is his wish that people involved in doing what he did should aspire to achieve and maintain, or even surpass, the quality of material that he produced and the diligence that he put into the work that he did,” he stated.

Durand also conveyed a message from Henderson to the older people in the various communities urging them to pass on to the younger generation their knowledge of the creole language so that the tradition can be sustained and perpetuated.

Mindful of the public pronouncements that have been made in this regard, he made it known that the creole icon is hoping that one day his dream to have the creole language taught in schools in Dominica will be realized and is urging the relevant authorities to get the ball rolling.

With Henderson being highly acclaimed for his extraordinary journalistic skills, Durand encouraged the media community to take a cue from his friends’ work.

“I am not suggesting that we take all of the risks that he took such as physically putting ourselves in harm’s way but we should recognize the need to be more professional, to be more thorough.” he said. “If he [Henderson} was here today that’s what he would be saying to you, take a cue from my page and go out there be unafraid and do your job, ask the questions…do in depth reporting on your stories…ensure that the questions that the public wants answered are asked.”

Durand went on to share his vivid recollection of his friend’s sense of justice, but more importantly, his faith in God.

“Felix himself would tell you that all of the qualities  we have talked about, his perseverance, his dedication, his courage,  his stick-to-it-iveness, his compassion, all of those things; he would tell you that those qualities, notwithstanding, none of his achievements would have been possible  were it not for his belief in God. His faith is strong,” he stated.

He added that the title of Henderson’s autobiography, ‘Because you are with me’ is a manifestation of his belief in God.

Meantime, Editor of the book, Dr. Irving André, pointed out that while many people are familiar with the public persona of Henderson, the extraordinary advertisements, the  wonderful documentaries he has done, his work propagating the creole language and reading, his concern for the plight of the poor, among others, very few know of the hardship which he has endured.

“Many of us are unfamiliar with his stripes from childhood.  Many  of us are unfamiliar with the difficult story of his  life in terms of education and having to drop out of the Dominica Grammar School on the count of financial distress. Many of us are unfamiliar with the challenges he has had with his father so here is a book which speaks to hardship,” Dr. André said.

He labeled the biography as a mediation and success and says it  indicates that no obstacle is too great if one has the right frame of mind and the right belief  system in God.

According to him, “In reading this  book, I feel reassured. I feel that my life has been enriched by the work of this man and I feel that everyone who reads this book will feel the same. it makes us recommit  ourselves to those who are disadvantaged, it makes us reconnect ourselves to those who are afflicted by erns,”

Andre went on to say, “It makes us reconnect ourselves to those  who cannot fend for themselves, because  Felix has transcended the boundaries of his profession, he has transcended his village where he grew up. He has transcended the literary world in which he has  played such a prominent role. Felix has  proved himself to be an extraordinary human being and this book bears  testimony to that wonderful fact.”

A recorded statement from Henderson was presented at the launch.

“This book tells of a story of a young man who basically didn’t have a chance in life but God made the difference because it is written when your mother and father forsake you then the Lord will take you up” he advised from his sick bed. “So whatever  your circumstances are, don’t give up on life and don’t give up on God. He can make the difference.”

Dominican ambassador, Billy Doctrove, who commended his friend for his work also made a EC$5000.00 donation to Henderson from a few individuals from the corporate community.

Those interested in purchasing Felix’s book can do so at Jays Book Store, J.Astaphan & Co Ltd,  Quikare Pharmacy, in Roseau or call this number: 767 616 5469.