Abiding passion for a true calling

They are known as the backbone of the health sector and often go beyond the call of duty to ensure patients are taken care of.

- KAYLYNNE BANTOM

For many, the nursing profession is more than just a job but a passion. International Nurse’s Day celebrated annually on 12 May once again paid homage to the thousands of men and women under the theme “Our nurses. Our future. Caring for nurses strengthens economies”.

People’s Post spoke to a few nurses to find out what the profession meant to them.

For Noerjan Morkel (57), a clinical nurse practitioner at Lady Michaelis Community Day Centre in Plumstead, nursing others is a divine purpose.

She has been in the field for 37 years.

Her father had his heart set on her becoming a doctor, only to be disappointed; instead, she opted to follow in the footsteps of two of her beloved aunts.

“One if them is currently 68 years old and is still nursing. She retired and is on contract now. Her care and dedication to the profession made me identify with her. I actually initially wanted to do law, but God had other plans for me.”

Morkel believes she was a born nurse.