I met Ellis some 20-odd years ago in Tema. He came across as very affable — no airs at all. Just down to earth, yet very serious when it comes to his work. One memorable moment? I’m not sure he’ll even remember this. We were driving on the motorway heading to Accra when I suddenly blew a front tyre. He started screaming like we were about to die! I was calm behind the wheel, brought the car under control, and just burst out laughing at him — he was visibly shaken! One thing about Ellis that always makes me smile: he’ll crack a joke that’ll have you rolling with laughter — but he’ll keep a straight face, like he never said a word. If I had to choose one phrase to describe our bond, it would be: Older brother from another mother. He’s always been there for us — for both myself and my wife — and we truly appreciate the relationship. My birthday wish for Ellis: May you age gracefully like fine wine — in health, wealth, and prosperity. Amadeus Ekuban I first met Ellis at Provita Hospital in Tema. Just awesome — caring and lovely indeed. A memorable moment was when he called to say he was now at Finney Hospital and that I should come and try again for a baby or two. We met again, full of hope that it would work out this time — and by the grace of the Almighty God, it did! Abdul-Rahmah Nukunu came into our quiet but lovely home. We share this wonderful gift with God Almighty Himself, Madam Eno, Aunty Mercy, and the entire IVF staff indeed! A funny and heart-warming trait of Ellis that always brings a smile to my face is his fair, firm, focused, and friendly approach to life and work. He calls me “sister dear” — and that always pulls a big smile on my face and deep inside me too. He’s a good man indeed! If I had to choose one word to sum up our bond, it would be: Awesome!!! Happy birthday, Ellis! I wish you a healthy and long life with the Lord Almighty in charge, continued success in your chosen field of work, a blessed marriage life with your new wife, and joy with your children, both home and abroad. Aaaamin! Cheers! Mona Mawushie Abbas I first met Ellis during my job interview at Finney Hospital about 17 years ago. My initial impression was that he was a difficult person — but I was completely wrong. He turned out to be kind, principled, and very supportive. One moment that stands out is how concerned he always is about people’s personal challenges, and how ready he is to help. A gesture I’ll never forget is when he drove all the way to Dansoman to iron and deliver my wedding dress to me at Odorkor. That act of kindness and humility will forever stay with me. What always makes me smile is his quick reactions — and how he suddenly changes direction with a joke when he realises he’s misjudged a situation. If I had to choose one word to describe our bond, it would be kind. Ellis is genuinely kind-hearted and thoughtful. Happy birthday, Boss and senior brother! I pray for long life and good health for you. I wish you all the best in everything you do. Thank you for all the kindness you’ve shown me — I’ll always be grateful. With love, From me and my family Eno Odame-Darkwa I was very young when I first met Lizo. From the beginning, I saw greatness and goodness all around him. One memorable experience was the day he came to my house and dismissed all the workers because they weren’t doing things the right way. It may have seemed harsh, but that’s Ellis — he brings out the best in everyone around him. Something that always makes me smile is the way he addresses issues. He’ll shout at you so powerfully your whole being will quiver — even though he doesn’t really mean it. It’s just his way. If I had to sum up our bond in one word, it would be amazing. My birthday wish for Ellis is that God will continue to reward his goodness with good health and long life. Kwabs 28 The Birthday Journal D E D I C AT E D
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