I had heard a lot about Dr. Ellis when I was starting out as a clinical embryologist, and I really admired him. He came across as someone who was disciplined but still very approachable — which I found incredibly inspiring. Funny enough, I later got to know him on a more personal level through my husband, Senyo, and that just made me appreciate him even more. I’ve had many memorable moments with Uncle Ellis, but the one that stands out most was the day he scolded me at work — not out of frustration, but out of purpose. He challenged me, pushed me, and mentored me on what it truly means to step into leadership — not just with competence, but with tact, presence, and intention. It wasn’t an easy moment; in fact, I cried. Not because I was hurt, but because he touched something deep — something at the very core of who I am and what I’m striving to become professionally. That day, he saw past the surface and spoke directly to the leader within me. It was a defining moment, and I’ll never forget it. It reminded me that real mentorship isn’t always comfortable, but it is always transformative — and for that, I’m endlessly grateful. Uncle Ellis also has this rare gift I haven’t seen anywhere else — he can make you laugh when you least expect it, and somehow, it’s always exactly what you need in that moment. If I had to use one word to describe our bond, it would be “pillar” — because he holds a special place in my life, offering unwavering support, wisdom, and warmth as both a mentor and family. Dear Uncle Ellis, today we celebrate not just your years, but the incredible impact you’ve had on all of us who are blessed to know you. You’re not only family, but also a mentor, a godfather, and a constant source of wisdom, laughter, and strength in our lives. Your ability to mix discipline with humour, and seriousness with heart, is something truly rare. You’ve guided me with grace, challenged me to grow, and supported me in more ways than you probably know. I often wish I had known you earlier — but I’m beyond grateful that life brought us together when it did. Thank you for being a pillar in our lives and a blessing in our family. May this new chapter bring you even more peace, fulfilment, and joy than the ones before. You deserve nothing less. With so much love, respect, and admiration, Diane Amedo Well, considering I’m his nephew, I’d say he met me first — when I was born! But in my more advanced years, I would say the first proper memory I have of meeting and truly getting to know him was after my return to Ghana in 2011, when I went to live and work with him. My initial impression was one of amazement at his accomplishments as an embryologist in Ghana. Back then, IVF and “test tube” babies were — and still are — frontier science. To have him actively working in that field here in Ghana was incredibly impressive. His dedication and commitment were unmatched, clearly evident in his work ethic and long hours. One of the most memorable experiences we shared was during those early days — the countless early-morning drives, leaving East Legon at dawn to cross town to Finney, ready to attend to fertility cases. Those moments remain vivid and meaningful. A funny and quirky trait that always brings a smile to my face? His level of sarcasm is unmatched. You always have to be on your toes with him — and that keeps things interesting. If I had to use one word to sum up our bond, it would be “fatherly.” The amount of advice and guidance he has given me over the past decade and more has truly shaped who I am today. I can find no better word. Happy birthday to a truly remarkable man! It’s hard to put into words how much your presence in my life has meant. You’ve always been there with wisdom and counsel, consistently offering the other side of the coin so I could see life and decisions from every angle. You’ve had a profound impact on the man I’m becoming, and I’m deeply grateful for every lesson learned. I pray you have an incredible birthday — and many more years filled with blessings, health, and joy. Dr. Rex Senyo Amedo The Birthday Journal 41 E L L I S AT 6 0
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