Tambo Memorial staff remembered

“Gone but never forgotten.”

These were the words of comfort spoken by MEC for Health and Wellness Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko as families and colleagues gathered at the unveiling of the wall of remembrance at the Tambo Memorial Hospital on December 8.

The Gauteng Provincial Government erected the memorial to celebrate the lives of the 11 nurses and an operational worker who died within the hospital grounds in the gas tanker explosion in Hospital Road on December 24, last year.

The healthcare professionals were among 41 people who ultimately lost their lives due to the events of that morning.

Seated among newly-planted shrubs with the water of a nearby water feature softly cascading, it is difficult to imagine that on Christmas Eve 2022, the area was ravaged in a ball of flames.

Mothers, fathers, partners and children quietly took their seats as Zono Futshane sang worship songs, drowning out the sounds of grading as an excavator removed debris from under the nearby bridge under where a gas tanker became lodged, started leaking and exploded – a stark reminder of the accident.

Offering a spiritual message, reverend Allan Mnene opened the proceedings with a prayer.
Mnene reminded the bereaved to not wallow in the memories of the tragic accident but to remember the smiles of their loved ones, holding dear the memory of the comfort they found in the victims’ hugs.

“You have endured great sadness, but time does heal,” said Mnene.

“It is through celebrating their lives that the pain of your loss will lessen.

Speaking during the unveiling ceremony, Nkomo-Ralehoko explained the memorial serves not only as a place of remembrance but also as a symbol of the commitment to continue their legacy of care and compassion.

“In their memory, we renew our dedication to serving our community with the same selflessness and strength they exemplified every day.

“This memorial wall stands as a heartfelt tribute to our fallen colleagues, symbolising not only our shared grief but our collective hope and healing.

“It is a sacred space where we can meet to remember, reflect, and find solace in the knowledge that we share this journey of grief and remembrance. The courage and unity you have all shown during this challenging time have been a source of inspiration, shining a light of hope through one of the darkest chapters in our hospital’s history.”

The MEC pointed out that amidst the chaos of the day, the bravery and selflessness displayed by so many were nothing short of heroic.

“While some sought safety, others instinctively moved towards the danger, their thoughts focused on the safety and well-being of their colleagues. This display of bravery and dedication speaks volumes about the character and spirit of the staff at Tambo Memorial Hospital.

“Equally unforgettable was the response of our emergency medical services on that day. To see our own EMS team, typically responding to external crises, rushing to our aid was surreal and deeply touching. Their quick and courageous actions in rescuing our colleagues highlighted the risks they face every day in their dedication to saving lives.

“This tragedy, though it brought immense sorrow and loss, also revealed the strength and unity of our hospital community. In the aftermath, the support, empathy, and solidarity by everyone here were truly heart-warming. The way colleagues supported each other, the community’s generous assistance, and the strength shown by the families of the victims were beacons of hope in a time of grief.

“As we continue to heal and move forward, we carry with us the memories of those we lost, the lessons we learned, and the unity we forged in the face of adversity. This tragedy, though it brought immense pain, also brought out the best in us – our compassion, our resilience, and our unwavering commitment to the health and well-being of our community.”

Legacy
She expressed her gratitude to organisations like the Gift of the Givers and many other individuals and groups who offered their support.

Matron Constance Mhlongu, who was on duty on the day, said it took time for staff members to heal.

Commenting on the wall of remembrance, Mhlongu said, “I feel it is an honour for those who lost their lives. We never thought the department would take this initiative. We are proud, happy and appreciative.”

Taking the podium, Lesiba Malotana, acting HOD for the department, said the hospital staff exuded dedication and diligence in the execution of their duties.

“We owe it to their legacy and families to hold their names high in our service to the community,” he said.

“As we strive to better the lives of those who seek assistance at this hospital, we have allocated R4b to revamp the facility. In doing so, we remember the fallen souls who with a smile, care and encouragement, walked these corridors.”

Brave
For some, this was the first time they set foot on the hospital property following the blast.

Clutching a bouquet of pastel-coloured flowers, Ntozonke Nene (17) held her grandmother’s hand; the teen remaining resolute during the official proceedings.

Nene’s mother, Audrey Nompumelelo Shezi, was a nurse at the neo-natal ward for 14 years.

“My mother was a brave woman and found joy in the small things in life,” said Ntozonke.

“She loved her job and the babies in her care. She was always happy when they were strong enough to go home to be with their families. I miss her every day.”

Cradling her nephew in her arms, Nonhlanhla Modisakeng says her sister-in-law, Patricia Nthabiseng Modisakeng’s death, had a lasting effect on the family, especially her two young children.

“She would have celebrated her birthday on December 7,” she said.

“Her daughter misses her terribly, and today is particularly difficult. However, I think the memorial will remind her that her mother was loved beyond measure.”