DESMOND COETZEE
THE King William’s Town District Retired Nurses Association, better known as the Nightingales, along with the rest of the world, celebrated International Nurses Day of Prayer at the Methodist Church in Breidbach recently.
The day is celebrated around the world every May 12 on the anniversary of Florence Nightingale’s birth.
The group of about 40 retired nurses, dressed in beautiful white and gold attire, filled half of the building, painting a different picture to the usual Sunday morning service.
After obtaining permission from Reverend Mxolisi Mnaba, they explained the purpose of their visit, delivered speeches, handed over a token of appreciation to the church and concluded the day with a meal.
Programme director and Nightingales member Nombasa Mnyanda called on Nightingale Yolisa Mkiva “ to tell us exactly who we are and what we are here for”.
Mkiva explained that the Nightingales were an NPO formed by retired nurses in 2007 and comprising about 150 nurses.
“Our aim is to assist by giving support to each other through love, to keep the flame burning as well as to reach out to communities and assisting with charity work,” said Mkiva.
Her contribution was followed by one from Gladys Mila who presented a historical background of legendary nurses Florence Nightingale and Cecilia Makiwane.
All the retired nurses were then led to the front by Nontathu Mjikeliso, where they lit lamps and candles in memory of those who have passed on. they repeated the nurses pledge and renewed their nurses’ vows.
Nightingales president Nonthembiso Nyikana concluded their programme with a word of thanks before handing over an envelope with a cash contribution to circuit steward Andrè Theron.
