With the storms and flooding that took place over the past long weekend accessing emergency health-care services became very tricky for all across the Overberg District, with ambulances not being able to access some areas and the public not able to travel to the nearest hospital.
Staff of the Department of Health and Wellness went out of their way to ensure a health service was still provided. Sister Aletta Davids, Operational Manager at Gansbaai Clinic, was one of those dedicated staff members who offered up her sleep to ensure a baby was delivered safely.
On 26 September at 04:40 EMS (Emergency Medical Services) received a call from a mother that was in labour, when they realised they would not be able to reach the patient and transport her to Hermanus Hospital due to road closure they referred her Gansbaai Clinic, which is not a 24-hour facility. They then contacted Dr Francois Fourie, who contacted Davids who resides in Gansbaai. At 05:10 Davids had opened the clinic and was ready to assist the patient, waiting with a labour pack.
She said getting up to assist the patient was non-negotiable.
“My patient is my priority, so I didn’t even think twice when I received the call from Dr Fourie, because the unborn baby and mother needed a service I could render. I am so grateful I work with a team that understands my dedication and passion and is able to offer the same to our patients.
“When I phoned Mrs de Villiers, staff nurse at Gansbaai Clinic, to come and assist me she immediately confirmed she would meet me at the facility.”
Although the mother who had gone into labour decided to find her own way to Hermanus Hospital, Davids stayed on duty to attend to other patients in need.
“Sr Davids puts the care of her community above all,” Dr Francois Fourie, Medical Manager, Overstrand Sub-District, said. “She is 100% committed to the welfare of all the patients, no matter the time of day. We are so proud of her. She is an example to us all.”
The Department of Health and Wellness wished to thank all the health-care staff who ensure an uninterrupted health service. During difficult circumstances staff stood to do what they do best, serve.
