Dancehall icons Bounty Killer and Shaggy have joined forces to support fellow veteran artist Lieutenant Stitchie, who is currently facing serious health challenges.
On Thursday, October 3, the two artists presented a donation of USD $10,000 to Lt. Stitchie’s wife, Mrs. Laing, during a small ceremony in Kingston. The donation, facilitated through The Bounty Foundation, will go towards covering the mounting medical costs associated with Stitchie’s care.
“In a heartfelt act of generosity, The Bounty Foundation and Shaggy made a significant donation of USD 10,000 to Cleve Laing, better known as Lieutenant Stitchie, with his wife, Mrs. Laing, collecting the cheque on his behalf. The presentation took place on October 3, 2024, at PAJ Imports Limited, located on Constant Spring Road in Kingston.
“Rodney Price, famously known as Bounty Killer, alongside his manager Paul “Bankey” Giscombe, personally handed over the cheque. This contribution exemplifies The Bounty Foundation’s unwavering commitment to giving back and making a meaningful impact within the community,” Bounty shared on his Instagram account.
Lt. Stitchie, whose real name is Cleve Laing, has been in a long-term care facility after suffering a severe brain hemorrhage that has left him unresponsive. The reggae and dancehall legend is currently undergoing specialized treatment, and his family last month launched a GoFundMe campaign with a goal of USD $100,000 to assist with medical bills and rehabilitation expenses.
The severity of Lt. Stitchie’s health issues had been the subject of rumors since 2023, but his family had remained private about the specifics of his condition until now. The family’s message on the fundraising page stressed the urgency of the situation, appealing for public support.
“Dear family, friends, and well-wishers, we are reaching out to you during this incredibly challenging time. Our beloved Cleve ‘Lt. Stitchie’ Laing, a husband, father, and friend, has recently suffered a severe brain hemorrhage that has left him unresponsive,” the family shared.
The GoFundMe page also highlighted the escalating costs of Stitchie’s medical care and the importance of rehabilitation. “Every donation, no matter how small, will make a difference and bring hope to Cleve and his family during this difficult journey,” the family stated, urging fans and supporters to share the campaign to help reach the fundraising goal.
The reggae and dancehall community has rallied around Lt. Stitchie, who is recognized for his contributions to the genre over several decades. Fans, fellow artists, and well-wishers have been offering prayers and financial support to assist in his recovery. The family expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of love and support, concluding their message with, “Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Your generosity and prayers mean the world to us.”
