Nurses honoured for their contribution
International Nurses Day was observed on Monday May 12, which also marks the birth anniversary of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing. This year’s theme was “Our Nurses. Our Future. The economic power of care.” Pictured are some of the nurses from Mitchell's Plain Community Health Centre.
Image: Marsha Bothma
The critical role played by nurses in delivering healthcare services and supporting communities was formally recognised during two events hosted by the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness in Mitchell’s Plain.
International Nurses Day was observed on Monday May 12, which also marks the birth anniversary of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing. This year’s theme was “Our Nurses. Our Future. The economic power of care.”
Commemorations were held at Mitchell’s Plain District Hospital on Monday May 12 and at Mitchell’s Plain Community Health Centre (MPCHC) on Friday May 16.
Nurse Valerie Kruger, Mitchell's Plain Community Health Centre school nurse was the master of ceremonies at the International Nurses Day on Friday May 16.
Image: Marsha Bothma
Nurse Yolanda Samuels, with 38 years of experience, shared reflections on the profession, likening it to a covenant rather than just a career.
Image: Marsha Bothma
Nurse Yolanda Samuels, with 38 years of experience, shared reflections on the profession, likening it to a covenant rather than just a career. “We are expected to go the extra mile and to take this with dignity,” she said. She also led colleagues in remembering and reading the nurses' pledge.
Tersia Du Plessis, a financial advisor who has worked with the hospital for over 15 years, addressed staff at MPCHC. She acknowledged the challenges nurses face and urged those in attendance to reflect on their personal well-being and purpose. “Make sure that your house is in order – your inner being – so that your life ahead can run smoothly,” she said.
Kauthar Larney, a representative from African Bank who works with MPCHC, offered thanks to the nurses for their continued support. “There are quite a few familiar faces, and I just want to say thank you to all the nurses who have helped us,” she said.
A moment of silence and prayer was held to remember six nursing staff members who have died in recent years, their pictures from left are Mandiphiwe Tshonisile, Asikelelwe Zokufa, Brenda Tieties, Rashieda Khan, Melissa Speelman and Mutile Maxwell Blom.
Image: Marsha Bothma
A moment of silence and prayer was held to remember six nursing staff members who have died in recent years, Mandiphiwe Tshonisile, Asikelelwe Zokufa, Brenda Tieties, Rashieda Khan, Melissa Speelman and Mutile Maxwell Blom.
The programme also included a musical item by Nurse Charleen Snyders, who performed You Raise Me Up.
Image: Marsha Bothma
The programme also included a musical item by Nurse Charleen Snyders, who performed You Raise Me Up.
Pastor Jerome Hendricks, also speaking at MPCHC on Friday, said that nursing is a calling discovered early in life. “Nurses work with lives every day. It shouldn’t be a once-a-year celebration – it should be daily, especially in communities where their contributions are often overlooked,” he said.
At the International Nurses Day on Monday May 12 are Mitchell's Plain District Hospital Nurses Maggie Williams and Florence Losper.
Image: Supplied