I was introduced to Ellis by my friend Asor, and he immediately struck me as someone genuinely warm and approachable. His easy smile, attentive listening, and kind demeanour made it clear he was not just affable, but also deeply empathetic and considerate. A few weeks before my mum passed, I remember calling Ellis one morning because I just needed someone to talk to. By then, he had already introduced his nephew — a doctor — to me. The nephew had been going to my mum’s house to take care of her, but despite all the efforts, there was no real improvement. I could see my mother deteriorating by the day. So I called Ellis and asked him, “What else can you do for me?” I was desperate. In typical Ellis fashion, he responded with humour — not to mock my pain, but to ease it, to help me breathe through the heaviness. He said, “Yaaba, do you want me to tell you the truth? You want your mother to suddenly get up and go to the market like she’s a young woman again? It will never happen.” Then he said something that really stayed with me: “Your mother can’t go back to doing her house chores like before. It comes with age. The same thing happened to my own mother.” laughing. It’s that perfect mix of seriousness and humour that makes him such a joy to be around. If I had to sum up our bond in one word, it would be steadfast. For over 15 years, Ellis has stood by me like a brother — through every milestone, every challenge, and every success. His loyalty, consistency, and trustworthiness are rare gifts, and I count myself blessed to have him in my life. Happy 60th, Ellis! I pray that all your heartfelt desires are fulfilled and that every secret prayer finds its answer. May the Lord go before you, clearing your path and guiding you to greater heights. May you always stand tall among your peers, and may your life overflow with good health, lasting peace, true happiness, and abundant wealth. Wishing you a day filled with joy and a year brimming with God’s grace and blessings. Mary Owusu And then: “Yaaba, are you calling me so I cry with you? I won’t cry. I’m telling you the truth. This is reality. The earlier you face it, the more at peace you’ll be.” By the end of that conversation, I felt lighter —not because anything had changed, but because someone helped me understand what I couldn’t accept. That’s Ellis. He doesn’t sugarcoat things. He brings humour and honesty. You don’t call Ellis to cry — you call him to breathe, laugh, and face reality with a smile. One word to sum up our bond: Reassuring. Happy 60th Birthday, Ellis! Wishing you a day filled with joy, laughter, and all the things that make life meaningful. Yaaba Baidoo I first met Ellis during preparations for the launch of the Fertility Society of Ghana (FERSOG). One of my most memorable moments with him was at the Merck Foundation Conference in Senegal. We sat together during two sessions and spent the time giving our own private running commentary on all the speakers and proceedings — it was hilarious! He has a funny way of cracking a joke just when you’re stressed and taking life too seriously. He can be a very good “partner in crime” when you need one the most. If I had to describe Ellis in one word, it would be gentleman. Happy 60th Birthday, dear Ellis. I seriously believe there’s a mistake in your date of birth — you still look 25! I pray our Almighty Father blesses you exceedingly and abundantly above all that you can ever think or imagine, according to HIS power at work in your life. May the next 60 years be even more glorious. May there always be happiness wherever you are, and may you always be surrounded by love. Afua Dadzie The Birthday Journal 31 E L L I S AT 6 0
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