Reggae-gospel artiste Cleve “Lt. Stitchie” Laing has been hospitalised in Kingston ahead of his 64th birthday, with his wife, Sophia Laing, appealing to the public for urgent blood donations as he battles a low blood count. The entertainer, who has been receiving long-term medical care since suffering a severe brain haemorrhage in 2024, has already received blood transfusions but requires additional units. In an emotional update, Sophia revealed that her husband has not spoken for two years, one month and two weeks, while expressing gratitude that he is still alive.
Speaking to The STAR, Sophia explained that she took her husband to hospital by ambulance on Thursday morning after his blood count dropped. Although he has received several units of blood, he still requires more. “The good thing is that he is still with us,” she said, offering a glimpse into the family’s ongoing struggle as the beloved entertainer continues to receive medical attention.
Stitchie, whose real name is Cleve Laing, suffered a severe brain haemorrhage in 2024 that left him in critical condition and unresponsive. His illness prompted an outpouring of support from Jamaica’s gospel and dancehall communities, with supporters helping to fund the specialised care and rehabilitation he needed. He has since been receiving dedicated treatment at a private rehabilitation facility, making his latest hospitalisation another difficult development in his recovery.
“This is a hiccup … a snag in the journey,” Sophia said, acknowledging the uncertainty surrounding his discharge. Despite the challenges, she remains grounded in faith as her husband prepares to celebrate his birthday on Tuesday. “He will turn 64. God has a reason why Cleve Laing is still in the land of the living,” she said, reflecting on the significance of his continued survival.
Known for his energetic performances, witty dancehall lyrics and later transition into gospel music, Lt. Stitchie built a career that crossed musical boundaries. He recorded his debut album, Wear Yuh Size, for King Jammy in 1987 and later became one of the early dancehall artistes signed to Atlantic Records. As his family continues to navigate the medical challenges, Sophia has confirmed that the GoFundMe campaign established to support his ongoing care remains active.
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