Life Roseacres Hospital celebrates nurses as pillars of compassion and care
In celebration of International Nurses Day on May 12, Life Roseacres Hospital was filled with warmth and appreciation as it hosted an event to honour its nursing staff, the true backbone of healthcare.
'As a hospital, we recognise the invaluable contributions of our nursing professionals. This year's theme resonates with Life Healthcare's commitment to investing in, respecting, supporting, recognising, and protecting our nurses,' said Janene de Beer, marketing and communications manager.
This year's global theme 'Our Nurses. Our Future. Caring for Nurses Strengthens Economies', is a reminder of the critical role nurses play in healthcare systems and the economic well-being of societies.
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One of the most moving moments of the celebration was when nurses gathered to renew the Nightingale Pledge – a solemn oath reaffirming their dedication to ethical, compassionate, and skilled care.
With candles lit and hearts full, the nurses stood side by side, echoing a pledge that defines their noble calling.
In her keynote address, Life Roseacres Hospital Manager Sentle Moroeroe praised the nursing team for their unwavering commitment.
'Nurses Day is an important date on our calendar, as it allows us to honour and celebrate our nurses for their commitment to excellence in patient care.
'Our nurses work hard to deliver clinical expertise and go above and beyond – lending a listening ear and offering a compassionate touch, which often plays a vital role in a patient's recovery,' said Moroeroe.
She added, 'Today, we celebrate more than just a profession – we honour a calling. Our nurses are healers, comforters, and often the first and last people patients encounter. Their work cannot be measured by hours, but by the lives they touch.'Moroeroe encouraged nurses to take pride in their profession.
'Nurses are sometimes undervalued, but their work is profoundly important. They play a central role in the care and well-being of every patient.'
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A special highlight of the day was the recognition of Dineo Khumalo, recently selected as one of the Great 100 Nurses. Through this initiative, the group honours top nurses chosen by their peers for their efficiency, quality of care, compassion, and contribution to enhancing the patient experience.
Khumalo, who joined Life Roseacres a year ago, expressed her gratitude and excitement.
'I started in May last year, and being selected for the Great 100 Nurses is a humbling experience. It is an assurance that I am doing my job well.'
Coming from a financial background, Khumalo shared how she made a bold decision to switch careers.'
'I spent ten years in the corporate world, but had a strong passion for nursing. I left finance and pursued my dream – and never looked back.'
She encouraged others to follow their passion regardless of age or career stage.
'It is never too late. Since starting my nursing journey, I have learnt so much. There is a wide range of opportunities in this profession. We need to be open to learning and empowering ourselves.'
Khumalo also urged fellow nurses to take pride in their roles.
'Whether a patient is kind or not, we must always aim to deliver the best care – it is our duty. It is also important to educate patients about their rights and nurses' rights, to establish a mutual understanding and respect.'
The day concluded with speeches of gratitude, light refreshments, and tokens of appreciation shared among colleagues.
Nurse manager Natasha Packree, who led the ceremony, emphasised the need for continuous professional development and emotional support.
'Renewing our oath is a reminder of the sacred trust we hold. Every patient we care for deserves our best, and to give that, we must take care of ourselves,' she said.
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