Nurse who chose UAE over Europe elated after e-meeting with CP
abu dhabi — An Indian nurse who gave up his dream to migrate to Europe 10 years ago said his decision to move to the UAE instead, was proved to be right one after being appreciated in person by the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi for his role in fighting COVID-19.
Arun Pullikkottu Eapen, 34, had a video conference with His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, in the third episode of the Sheikh’s virtual majlis on May 13.
Sheikh Mohamed thanked all the frontliners and the officials who are making the UAE safe. “It was a blessing from God; a once in a lifetime opportunity,” Eapen said.
Working as an acting nursing supervisor at Al Rahba Hospital in Abu Dhabi, which is under the Abu Dhabi Health Services Company (Seha), Eapen said he has
THANKS TO UAE: Arun Eapen during the majlis. —
become a “celebrity” among his colleagues, friends and fellow Indians in the Gulf and back home as the video of his conversation with Sheikh Mohamed has gone viral on social media.
He said the exciting experience proved his important decision 10 years ago to move to the UAE, instead of Europe, was right. “I was preparing for my IELTS exam to migrate to Europe while attending an interview for the position of a staff nurse conducted by Seha in Chennai 10 years ago,” he said.
“When selected for the position, I dropped my IELTS preparations and European dream forever,” reminisced Eapen who is from Kottayam district in Kerala.
It all began with a surprise call from the Crown Prince’s Court, just two days before the scheduled video conference. “I was excited. When checked with my Chief Nursing Officer, he confirmed that I was nominated for that. It was a golden opportunity for a nurse,” he explained.
He said although he was a little bit nervous, Sheikh Mohamed’s “friendly and compassionate tone” put him at ease. “Really it was touching. I never expected that he would be asking about my family. I felt he is a wonderful leader. How humble he is! His Highness is a role model for any other leader,” Eapen said. —