Dear Nora,

IN the middle of the night, probably 1957, I was taken from my little village over 20 miles to the Isolation Hospital in Killarney. I was three years old. I remember the doors of the ambulance banging shut, I was seriously ill.

You know, Nora, at that time parents did not go with or stay with their children in hospital as they do nowadays.

It must have been a very frightening experience for me, but thankfully I have no memories of that.

Nora, I have never forgotten the loving care you gave me, which restored me back to health.

Nora, I went on and became a nurse myself and was privileged to share in that same loving care that you showed me.

The terminally ill children remain forever in my heart — smiling baby Tomas; little endearing Martin, who held his nose as I changed his nappy; little Timmy, who was an orphan.

Our little country is heartbroken at the moment Nora. I have worked in the health service, and the vast majority working there are well meaning. But why do we put greedy, selfish people in charge of us? We have made great advances in medical science, Nora. But we still have to learn how to show love and put the patient first as you showed me.

Nora, it is over 60 years since we met. I have never forgotten your goodness and kindness to me. I thank you with all my heart. Mary Name and address with the Editor