Our Brother, Our Blessing - Witty Ellis, how do you sum up a man like you — a.k.a. Nii Anku, a.k.a. Lizo, a.k.a. the family prankster, part-time chef, full-time abusuapanyin, and all-around legend? You don’t. From childhood mischief to life-saving advice, latenight hospital visits, and showing up whenever we’ve needed you — you’ve been more than a brother. You’ve been a second dad, a steady guide, and our resident problem-solver. We’ve seen you stand in the gap countless times, putting family first without hesitation, and leading by example in ways that have shaped us all. Otobea, the firstborn and keeper of stories, starts us off strong. I remember my adorable baby brother who was born with fine hair. One of the aunties, while bathing and “moulding” his head (as is customarily done), used extremely hot water, leaving a burn on his head. Auntie A went into hiding out of fear when Dad came to see his handsome baby boy. She was worried because she knew our dad did not believe in some of those traditions. After four daughters, our parents doted on their first two boys, Nii Oto (of blessed memory) and little Nii Anku. I vividly remember them one Christmas in the suits Daa had custom-made for them, albeit a bit oversized. I left Ghana when Ellis was almost 10. Fast forward about 20 years and beyond, Ellis played pivotal roles in helping my three children assimilate to Ghana on their first visits. Being at Uncle Nii Anku’s allowed Nana a little freedom to go out with Kwabea and other friends. (You can imagine Emaa was not going to allow them to leave the house after dark for any reason!) Maame brought friends from the U.S. His place was where they met with their cousins. I got to hear my baby brother was now a master chef, cooking them some of their favourite meals. My youngest son Kwofe and his friend Ryan went to stay with Uncle Nii Anku at his place in Tema for a month while working at S.O.S. as part of their high school senior project. (A whole month with two American teenagers invading your space!) I will forever be grateful to Ellis for taking responsibility not only for his nephew but also for his friend. It was a wonderful experience for them. He always made sure they were able to get wherever they needed to be while in Ghana. Ellis and some other family members visited us in St. Louis. My hubby, Colie, and I got to experience the cooking skills we had heard so much about. It was such a wonderful time. His love for family is very evident in how his place is always a destination, whether for family visiting from abroad or from Kumasi. Those in Accra are always enjoying their hospitality. On family visits to Ghana, Ellis and his lovely and welcoming wife, Asor, have hosted us to some great dinners. We are all grateful for Nii Anku’s abusuapanyin role. He manages to find time in his busy professional life to represent us at all extended family functions. Colie and I are very proud of all your accomplishments, bringing joy to so many families by making it possible for them to realise their hopes and dreams of having children. On this, your 60th birthday, we pray for God’s continuous blessings. Happy Birthday to my dear brother Ellis. Eva Otobea Coleman 18 The Birthday Journal W I T T Y
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