Not many nurses get to meet their heroes in person. Then again, not many heroes are a 10-foot granite statue on the north-easterly corner of Trafalgar Square. The statue of Edith Cavell was brought to life this autumn as a crowd gathered to commemorate one of Britain’s most celebrated nurses. Since 12th October 1920, nurses have laid wreaths at her memorial in St Martin in the Field on the anniversary of her execution. Nurses at the Royal London first initiated this act of remembrance. The hospital where Cavell honed her profession.
Edith Cavell was a British nurse who dedicated her life to others. She was committed to caring for all, regardless of circumstances. During World War I, she provided aid to soldiers without discrimination to allegiance. She went beyond her duty, establishing an underground network, which helped allied soldiers escape German-occupied territories. Her actions led to the survival of countless personnel and, ultimately, her tragic death. She died by firing squad on 12th October 1915.
Nurses and healthcare professionals gathered from across the UK to honour this heroic woman. Speaker Susan Gostick, Chair of the Cavell Trustees, reminded us that Edith’s words are still pertinent today during challenging times: “Patriotism is not enough…I must have no hatred or bitterness towards anyone”. With these permeable words, attendees communed to the hymn Abide with Me led by Laura Wickham. This is the last prayer spoken to Cavell before her death. The St Martin’s Church bells chimed to start the minute's silence.
It was an honour and privilege to place a wreath on behalf of the Royal College of Nursing Defence Forum whilst representing Princess Mary’s Royal Air Force Nursing Service. A proud moment standing shoulder-to-shoulder with other wreath bearers in celebrating nursing heritage. From the Queen’s Nursing Institute and the Nightingale Fellowship to Professor Nicola Ranger, RCN Chief Executive. It was inspiring to be surrounded by a rich healthcare history overseen by such a fitting monument. Commemoration offers stillness to recollect nursing acts of selflessness, courage and humanity. It reaffirms our commitment to care in the face of adversity.
Thank you to the Cavell Trust for hosting the event and supporting nurses and midwives through hardship. Cavell provides grants, advice, and financial guidance to healthcare colleagues. The Trust is a charity dedicated to caring for those who care for our nation. Its vital work depends on the generosity of fundraisers and donors. To find more information on support or donating, visit cavelltrust.co.uk.
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