12 MAY 1820 – FLORENCE NIGHTINGALE IS BORN

FLORENCE NIGHTINGALE was a British nurse who became celebrated for her ideas on modern nursing and sanitation and her tireless work during the Crimean War in 1854.

During the Victorian era in Britain, which was around the time she was growing up, women weren’t expected to work – their responsibilities included looking after the home once they were married and having children.

Florence, however, had other plans. She revealed that she’d heard the voice of God telling her about important work she needed to do: to help people who were suffering. She wanted to be a nurse.

Her parents weren’t happy with her choice, as nursing wasn’t a respected or glamorous job at the time, but she was dedicated to her profession.

In 1854 she was called to head up a team of nurses to take care of soldiers badly injured and dying of diseases during the Crimean War.

Britain, France and Turkey fought on one side, and Russia on the other.

Florence took along better medical equipment to assist the wounded soldiers, as she knew they needed special care.

While doing her rounds and checking up on patients in the middle of the night, she was known to carry around a lantern and became known as the “The Lady with the Lamp”.

After the war, she met Queen Victoria and discussed ways healthcare needed to be improved for people serving in the army.

Hospitals became cleaner and doctors were trained to help the injured soldiers – all because of Florence.

She was commended by the queen for her work, established a nursing school and became known as a heroine for her dedication to nursing and helping others.