The Mediclinic Bloemfontein paid homage to more than 700 nurses on 12 May.
The aim of International Nurses Day, an annual commemoration, is to secure global health by focusing on the need to protect, support and invest in the nursing profession to strengthen health systems around the world.
The hospital continued the tradition of recognising the efforts of its nursing staff, acknowledging their sacrifices and honouring their invaluable contributions towards caring for the sick.
More than 100 nurses were nominated for the hospital group’s prestigious Nursing Excellence Award.
“The recognition by my colleagues is overwhelming, and so much more than I deserve,” says Suanita Botha, who has been a nurse at the Mediclinic Bloemfontein for 17 years.
“I nurse not to receive anything back. I always tell my patients and family that it is important to do whatever you can while there is still life. I chose the nursing profession because it is my passion to show compassion.”
Botha was among the 111 award nominees.
The hospital group presents the awards every year to recognise nurses.
“I have been working in the intensive care unit for 17 years, but the years of the Covid-19 pandemic have been the most challenging times ever for me, both emotionally and professionally,” says Botha.
“Nursing is a thankless profession, but I feel satisfied to continue doing my best to save lives.”
- International Nurses Day is celebrated annually on 12 May, the anniversary of Florence Nightingale’s birth in 1820. Dubbed “the Lady with the Lamp”, she changed the course of modern nursing.
Nursing is a thankless profession, but I feel satisfied to continue doing my best to save lives– Suanita Botha
