200 years
since Old Flo was here,
since she braved the Crimea
and shaped our career
and profession
into its modern dimension.
Paved the way for future generations
who are called to the same vocation.
200 years is cause for celebration.
The Year of the Nurse and Midwife
is a declaration,
a way to show appreciation
for our dedication.
What timing
should we be laughing
or crying?
In the eye of the storm
with no way to see
but if you strain
you can hear the Nightingale tweet.
There is no way
that woman
would have conceded defeat.
There were few who would dare clamp her beak. She fought for standards to meet basic needs,
enforced regulations to improve safety,
with particular importance on hygiene.
The irony.
Anyone else thinking of PPE?
So I implore all Nurses, Midwifes, Whoever
to be channelling Florence
and try to remember
you have a voice
you aren’t just a number.
The Lady’s Lamp
illuminates
the well trodden path,
of a profession
battling to care
whilst under oppression.
Investment
left to the benevolence
of 100 year old men
doing laps of their garden.
You’re telling me
in our advanced and modern society
it’s down to charity
to ensure Healthcare workers
get the equipment they need.
Well Flo, I’m sorry
that’s our reality,
not much has changed politically.
However,
The same can’t be said,
for the rest of our community.
There has been an outpouring,
of generosity,
of everybody pitching in.
Gifts of equipment
and anything to make life less of a mission.
But it’s the appreciation,
the understanding of our situation
and the respect of a nation
which has really left an impression.
One we will carry with us for years I imagine.
It feels a bit alien
to be mentioned.
Especially when there’s no impending election.
We can only hope it gets the attention
of those controlling our occupation.
Even Banksy gave us a promotion.
Put his spin on the notion
that idols
are a distraction
from those really grafting
for your protection.
A reflection
of the misdirection
of affection.
So we urge,
light your lamp as she deserves.
The glow of hope
and unity
will warm the air
and bring reprieve
from the tragedy
we see
and the inadequacies
of our leaders.
2020: The year we rebooted the machine.
2020: The year of COVID-19.
2020: The Year of Nursing and Midwifery