Pinetown compassionate nurse keeps the lamp burning
Logie Ganapathie is still committed to saving lives despite the traumatic experiences caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
BEING in the nursing industry for more than 30 years, Life The Crompton Hospital Unit Manager, Logie Ganapathie is still committed to saving lives despite the traumatic experiences caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
As a Covid-19 survivor, she said this year’s Covid-19 survivor, on Wednesday, 12 May will be a bit different – it will be dedicated to celebrating and honouring fellow nurses who lost their lives in the fight against Covid-19.
ALSO READ: #InternationalNursesDay: Life Westville Hospital honours nurses
International Nurses Day is celebrated annually on 12 May, the anniversary of the founder of modern day nursing, Florence Nightingale’s birthday.
This year’s theme is Nurses: A Voice to Lead – A vision for future healthcare.
Ganapathie said the pandemic, which claimed many lives close to her, has taught her to value the little things in life and not take things for granted.
“It also taught me to walk in a patient’s shoes and this has brought me closer to them more than before.”
She said losing loved ones was mentally challenging and heartbreaking.
My life just flashed before me
Recalling her experience, Ganapathie said Monday, 28 December is a date that will be forever etched in her memory.
“I recall my husband and I had switched on the television in our room. We had just listened to president Cyril Ramaphosa addressing the nation, then I received the dreaded message that I tested positive for the virus.”
She said many things went through her mind as she questioned how it happened. “I was in a state of shock-disbelief as I had been the manager of the Covid ward since inception of the pandemic.
“I had been pedantic about patient and staff safety and the use of PPE and education. The hospital management ensured that safety protocols were and are still adhered to,” she said.
She added the next few days were terrifying. “I would not wish that experience on anyone, it was dreadful,” said Ganapathie.
ALSO READ: Pregnant mom in labor dances with nurses
Her husband and son also contracted the disease. “He had no energy and it broke me to see our son. I am grateful that they both recovered quickly.
“Fear and anxiety became my ally, I blamed myself. I exposed my family to this disease but as I slowly started to accept this, I became braver and stronger. What does not kill you definitely makes you stronger,” she said.
She added that she was grateful for the support she received from family, friends, the hospital management and community, “I am just grateful to be alive as we lost so many family members and friends due to this virus.”
She conveyed her condolences to everyone who lost their loved ones and assured the public that nursing is her passion which she continues to do with love.
Caxton Local Media Covid-19 reporting
