ROAD TOWN, Tortola, VI — The work of the newly launched Robert A. Mathavious Memorial Trusthas officially begun, with a commitment to addressing kidney disease in the Virgin Islands through prevention, treatment, education and support.
Established on 3 October 2025 under the laws of the Virgin Islands, the Trust was created in memory of Robert A. Mathavious and is intended to turn his vision for kidney health into a lasting initiative.
At the heart of that vision is a simple but powerful belief: “Dialysis is not a cure.”
According to the Trust, Mathavious viewed dialysis as a bridge to transplantation rather than a destination for patients to spend the remainder of their lives. His vision extended beyond treatment to preventing people from reaching the dialysis stage in the first place.
The Trust intends to support a broad range of initiatives, including assistance with medical treatment, transportation, medication and equipment, as well as kidney disease screening and public awareness.
It also aims to introduce kidney education in schools, provide counselling for patients and their families, support training for local healthcare professionals, and encourage research into kidney disease among Caribbean populations.
Another key area will be organ donor awareness and transplantation, reflecting Mathavious’ belief in providing patients with a genuine pathway beyond dialysis.
The Trust is structured as an irrevocable trust, with its funds held by professional trustees and guided by a Protector Committee. It is also able to receive contributions at any time.
The organisation is now calling on the community to support its work as it begins building what it describes as a long-term response to kidney disease in the Territory.
“We’re committed to ensuring the relief, prevention, and treatment of kidney disease for persons in the Virgin Islands,” the Trust said. “We’re in this together.”
For the Mathavious family and those behind the Trust, the initiative represents more than a memorial. It is an effort to ensure that Robert’s vision continues to serve people living with kidney disease—and potentially help others avoid the disease altogether.
The work begins now.