T&T's New York Consulate confirms Sparrow is alive

(Trinidad Express) Trinidad and Tobago's Consulate General in New York yesterday issued a press release stating that calypso icon Sparrow is alive.

Following is the full content of the release:
The Consulate General of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago in New York confirms that Mr. Slinger Francisco, “The Mighty Sparrow” is alive.
The Consulate General was informed of his condition today 12th September, 2013 at 8:37am by his son, Mr. Richard Francisco, who has been taking care of his father since he fell ill. According to him, the cultural icon “is resting comfortably, and he's alive and well.
The family wishes to thank the public for their prayers”.
Mr. Francisco advised the Consul General last week that should the situation change he would duly inform the nation via the Consulate General of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago in New York.
The nation would recall that the Consulate General recognized Sparrow with a lifetime achievement award on August 30th, 2013, but he was unable to collect the award in person; Richard, his son, accepted the award on his behalf.
The Consul General, Mrs. Rudrawatee Nan Ramgoolam, asked that nationals and other well wishers pray for his recovery and respect the privacy of the family at this time.
“This is an exceedingly difficult time for Sparrow’s family. Let us focus our energies on praying for both him and his family and allow the family to continue to take care of their loved one.
Should there be any further developments, Richard Francisco has promised to inform the Consulate General in New York and we in turn will issue an official release to reflect same.”
The Consulate General of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago in New York exercises consular jurisdiction in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and Vermont, and is focused on promoting Trinidad and Tobago and providing services for its Diaspora.

get well soon birdie