EDITOR – I was shocked by the contents of Ms Harie’s letter written in response to ‘Concerned Parent,’ Sun, 30 January.
It was very far from the truth and I can only surmise that she was wrongly informed by her sub-ordinates.
I would never have willingly left Jona Vaughan as long as I was physically able to perform my duties, as I was passionate about the well-being of those in my care. However, when I signed my last annual contract, I was told that it would be my last because of the company’s retirement policy. Despite appeals from the parents’ association and other parents, they were unwavering in their stance. I was therefore forced to leave on 31 July, 2014.
In the interim, I was offered a post at another institution. Before I resigned, I informed my immediate superior of the offer. They again had an opportunity to change their minds as, in the past Jona Vaughan has struggled to fill the nursing sister’s post. But they were immovable in their narrow-minded thinking.
At my age, I am extremely blessed to have been offered another post. One, I might add which will be very fulfilling, and I would have been very unwise to refuse it.
No, Ms Harie, I did not leave my beloved Jona Vaughan for any other reason than that Durban and Coastal Mental Health considered me too old. I wonder what your answer would have been to ‘Concerned Parent’, if I had worked until the end of my contract and left without a job.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the parents and relatives for their love and continued support during this emotional time .
PAM SWART
