In a special tribute to the medical fraternity, Mrs Machel, Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, HRH Zenani Mandela-Dlamini, Zindzi Mandela, Ndileka Mandela and Josina Machel, shared their deepest respect and gratitude on behalf of the Mandela family with the many medical specialists and professionals who had, over the years, ensured his strength and health so that he could serve his nation and the world from the time of his release from prison.
Opening the gathering, Chief Executive of the Nelson Mandela Foundation, Sello Hatang, acknowledged the medical fraternity by saying, “what you all share with Tata is the need and passion to serve people. One of the key values Madiba aspired to was that of service. May you continue to do him proud in your service.”
Mrs Machel, Winnie Madikizela-Mandela and Ndileka Mandela noted the importance of reflection, memory and sharing in honour of Tata with those who touched his life in such special ways. Mrs Machel shared how Madiba had a way of making one feel like the most important person in the world and this care was returned by the medical practitioners who treated him and the commitment and dedication by going over and above the call of duty at every occasion.
They both acknowledged the role that each medical staff member and institution played through the years in Madiba’s life including Park Lane Clinic, Milpark Hospital, Johannesburg General Hospital, Olivedale Clinic, 1 Military Hospital and the Pretoria Heart Hospital, and echoed the sentiment that Madiba would be proud of all that the fraternity do, no matter how small or large the task, to serve individuals, communities and the people of South Africa. He can now rest well knowing his legacy is in safe hands.
They wished to collectively share with the nation and the world their sincere thanks to all the specialists, doctors, nurses, medical professionals and practitioners, and medical personnel for their service and care and urged all to continue to do their great work to ensure the future of our nation and continent.