By Karabo Ntanzi
In commemorating International Nurses Day, the Northern Cape Department of Health and the Democratic Nursing Organisation of South Africa (Denosa) Sr Huibrecht “Tokkie” Fourie was nominated to represent the Province for the Marilyn Lahana Caring Awards.
International Nurses Day was attended by 300 hundred nurses from all districts of the Northern Cape at Horseshoe Motel in Kimberly. The day is observed annually on 12 May to honour Florence Nightingale. The theme for this year is ‘Our Nurse Our Future’.
The Executive Mayor for Sol Plaatje Municipality, Kagisho Sonyoni, delivered a message and Denosa Deputy General Secretary, Khaya Sodidi, a representative from Metropolitan and other stakeholders attended the event.
The Marilyn Lahana Caring Award is bestowed annually to a nurse who diligently performs his/her duties. Candidates are nominated by colleagues or the community they serve.
Denosa’s Provincial Chairperson Eugene Sak said, “It was a close call to choose the winner from nine contestants from the five districts in the Northern Cape. All candidates demonstrated passion and care for fellow human beings”.
Sr Tokkie’s official job title is Operational Manager at Niekerskhoop Clinic, she is the only Clinical Staff member as the facility. She drives 57km to transport patients in case of emergency from the clinic to Prieska District Hospital using her vehicle and she paid for all staff members, administration and cleaners included to be trained in Basic Life Support to assist when she is not available amongst other chores beyond her job description. Being the only clinical staff member, she sees to it that all co-workers assist daily to contribute to services at the clinic.
MEC for Northern Cape Dept of Health, Maruping Lekwene commended Sr Tokkie and all nurses for their dedication towards their work. “Through your dedication government has made significant progress in addressing issues of accessibility, equity and bringing hope to our people”, he said.
Various activities entertained guests with songs and dances. A candlelight service was conducted for their late colleagues.
The event was closed off the “Nursing Pledge”.
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