Sophia Laing, wife of Jamaican gospel–dancehall icon Lt. Stitchie, delivered an emotional update on his health by phone recently, as supporters gathered in London during a “Lt. Stitchie Road to Recovery” fundraising event. The event formed part of a three-city UK benefit tour aimed at assisting the veteran DJ with his long and costly rehabilitation.
In 2024, the “Wear Your Size” deejay suffered a major stroke that left him unable to speak or walk. He was initially hospitalised before being transferred to a rehabilitation facility.
Addressing supporters in London by phone, Laing thanked attendees for their solidarity, noting that her family has been overwhelmed by the outpouring of love across the United Kingdom.
“Stitchie is fighting, and for that I give God thanks,” Laing reiterated.
Signs of progress
Laing said that while Lt. Stitchie remains unable to speak fully, there are encouraging signs of improvement.
“When you speak, he will respond by making sounds,” she explained, adding that he continues daily therapy and has shown progress so far.
“He’s able to balance a whole lot more when he’s placed in a wheelchair. If he realises that he’s slipping to either side, he’ll use his elbow to raise himself up,” Laing said. “And to God we offer glory for that.”
Laing confirmed the DJ was taken to the hospital a day earlier over concerns about a persistent cough. Despite the setbacks, she emphasised his survival as a testament to faith.
“He is still here with us, still in the land of the living,” she shared, describing his recovery journey as “a testament of God’s grace and favour upon his life.”
Mounting financial strain
Laing spoke candidly about the financial pressure facing her family, revealing that monthly expenses exceed half a million dollars, excluding emergency ambulance trips and specialist consultations.
“It is truly a lot — a hard and tough and rough journey,” she said. “We appreciate any help. Whatever you give, we appreciate it from the depths of our hearts.”
Her voice broke slightly as she stressed the need: “We need every cent, every donation, no matter how small.”
Laing praised the Jamaica-born organiser leading the fundraising efforts abroad.
“A number of respects to Gracie… she’s the person leading the charge for his speedy recovery,” Laing said.
She also thanked the DJ’s team for ongoing assistance:
“We appreciate his management team for supplies on a monthly basis… for his residency… for the ambulance to the hospital.”
The tour organiser confirmed that community backing has been strong and continues to grow.
“We’ve gone through three cities… and we’ve got more to go,” the organiser told attendees, adding that “London is totally behind him.”
The crowd erupted into applause, with supporters urging: “Tell Stitchie we love him.”
As the UK benefit tour progresses, organisers say their mission is far from over, as the reggae and gospel community rallies behind the DJ.
The fundraiser, presented by Unique Touch Entertainment Promotions and Sunshine Horizon Promotions, continues as fans keep hope—and donations—flowing for one of the region’s most beloved voices.
