Dominica renamed the Castle Bruce Health Centre after Nurse Hyacinth Thomas for her lifelong contribution to community healthcare.
Dominica: The Government of Dominica has announced that it will rename the Castle Bruce Health Centre in honour of Nurse Hyacinth Thomas who has dedicated her years to service and has significantly contributed to the district's healthcare. The Castle Bruce Health Centre will now be called the Nurse Hyacinth Thomas Health and Wellness Centre.
Acting Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Andy St. Hiliare, has spoken of the weight of this decision, sharing that it attests to the great impact Nurse Hyacinth Thomas has and continues to have in the community, acknowledging her strong work ethic.
“This renaming is a fitting tribute to a healthcare professional whose life’s work has touched countless individuals and families. Nurse Hyacinth Thomas represents the very essence of community healthcare, selflessness, dedication and compassion,” acknowledged Dr. Andy St. Hiliare.
He continued by saying that as the health and wellness centre invests in resilient and contemporary infrastructure, commemorating the legacy of people who have made significant contributions to the provision of high-quality healthcare is equally vital, noting that they must go hand in hand. The acting Chief Medical Officer added that the initiative will ensure that Nurse Hyacinth Thomas’ legacy continues for generations to come.
“As we invest in modern climate resilience health infrastructure, it is equally important that we honour those who led the groundwork for quality care in our communities. This gesture ensures that her legacy will continue inspire both current and future generations of healthcare providers,” he stated.
Upon receiving this declaration, Nurse Thomas expressed her gratitude, sharing that she is both humbled and honoured.
“Really, I am very humbled and very excited too because I wasn’t expecting this. I know I worked hard and I did a lot for my community; but I didn’t do it for the name, I really did it because of the love of God,” expressed Nurse Thomas.
She went on to speak of her years of service and experience, encouraging her fellow service providers. She stated, “It’s really how you deal with people. It will have a lasting impact on you and on them.”