Douglas Hanna

Douglas Hanna was always strong and physically fit. And for most of his 32 years when he worked on the Royal Bahamas Police Force, he proved himself to be a leader when faced with difficulties which come with policing. However, it was his resilience that was ultimately tested when he was diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer in 2012.

He has undergone surgery to remove a portion of his colon and the tumor discovered – which was a relatively issue-free process – but the real journey was the six months of chemotherapy treatment inclusive of medication that sapped his energy and resulted in severe gastritis-type pains. Just to stand was a struggle.

Today, Douglas is standing strong – not just physically, but in his faith.

Douglas is a native of Spring Point Acklins. He was the second of seven children, born to Gladys Naomi Hanna – a single parent. At the age of six, he moved with his family to Nassau where he was raised.

Douglas completed his secondary education at the age of 14, eventually joining the police force. He has had a decorated career, having been a detective in the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and serving as Superintendent in charge of that department for five years. Douglas was also the Inspector in charge of the Police Abaco Division and capped off his policing career as Superintended in charge of the Police Uniform Division of New Providence and the Southern Bahamas districts.

Douglas also went on to further his studies, receiving a certificate in Paralegal Studies and a Bachelor’s degree in Law.

In November 2002, Douglas began employment at the Atlantis Resort after resigning from the police force and is now in his 16th year at Atlantis serving as the Senior Vice President of Security and Surveillance.

In the interim, Douglas has faithfully served his community. He has had the privilege of serving in several organizations including, but not limited to eight years as Chairman of the New Providence Junkanoo Parade Management Committee, a Director of the Airport Authority and the National Airport Development (NAD) Company and President of the Great Persuaders of Atlantis Toastmasters Club 1820. He is presently President of Christ Church Cathedral’s Branch of the Anglican Church Men, Secretary to the Vestry of Christ Church Cathedral, member of the National Crime Watch Committee and a member of the Government House Security Review Committee.

Clearly, being diagnosed with cancer has not stopped this resilient man from making meaningful contributions to society.

Since January 2013, Douglas’ tests have revealed no signs of cancer. He remains thankful to God for life and holds on to faith in God as a motivating factor. He also has gained motivation from other cancer patients who have positive attitudes, recognizing that the fight continues.

And a fighter he is.