Sister, Oh Sister

That way my girl! she said 

Yes Mam, I replied

And I can guarantee you, you do not want to oppose her decision.

Are you part of the Management Team, sister ? I asked

NO, she said, I am a retired nurse and I am 80 years old!

When we visited the Nontyatyambo community health centre in NU 1, we were hoping to get a tour through the centre by the manager but unfortunately all the staff members on the higher levels where in an important meeting.

But we were in excellent hands. Somebody had already picked us!

She is 80 years old, an experienced nurse, retired since several years and made a full professional come- back at an age when many others are more comfortable in a lounge chair.

" They needed me here ", our sister said , " and I reapplied ".

We were so lucky to get a guided tour through the maternity ward which is her kingdom.

The facilities in this community health centre were immaculate. Wherever we looked and went it was clean and neat. 

"Too many young girls get pregnant ", she said, " and complicate their lives. There is no discipline! It was different when I was young! This is the place where we insert spirals!" 

When we visited the rooms inside the maternity ward we met a young woman, who had just given birth to a gorgeous boy. And we were given permission to take these touching and beautiful photos.

                              

                             

Sometimes the things you do not plan become the most beautiful in your life.

Many young girls in South Africa fall pregnant at a very young age. The South African Government has implemented  a variety of measures to combat this problem which is caused by changing social norms in the modern South African Society. Access to adequate health care facilities for all and education is a top priority. More and more health care community centres are build.  Facilities like Nontyatyambo are offering education about contraceptive methods and the social consequences of teen pregnancies. 

But meanwhile should pick come to shovel, because life is just life and love is love, you are well taken care of by the other nurses as well. But you better behave!

Because the nurses here can carry a heavy load!