During their time at the Sydney Eye Hospital, where their beloved mother Sheila was receiving care, daughters Belinda and Carma found themselves reflecting on their family’s rich history. The hospital's serene courtyard, adorned with elegant Italianate architecture, became a backdrop for cherished memories and connections to the past.
As they sat together, Belinda spoke of how the grounds were woven with the threads of their family’s story. “This place isn’t just about Mum’s care; it holds a very special place in our hearts,” she said.
Belinda recalled her mother’s favourite cousin, Jean, who trained as a nurse at the Sydney Hospital in the 1930s.
“Jean met her husband, John, here while he was studying to be a doctor,” she shared. “John would tell stories about living on the very top floor with the other medical staff—and the pigeons!”
Belinda treasures Jean’s original nursing veil, a significant part of the nursing uniform that symbolizes her dedication to her profession. “Wearing that veil marked Jean’s achievement,” Belinda explained. “She devoted herself to her work as a nurse, and it’s incredible to think about how many lives she and John touched after they married around 1945, after the war.”
Their family’s ties to the hospital continue with the younger generation. Belinda smiled at the thought of her nephew James, who had flown in from New Zealand to support Sheila. “His wife wears Jean’s engagement ring, and they named their first daughter after her—Pippa Jean. It’s a beautiful reminder that Jean’s spirit lives on through us,” Belinda reflected.
In that moment, surrounded by the comforting sights of the hospital, Belinda felt a deep sense of gratitude. “As we navigate these challenging times with Mum’s health, it’s heartening to know that our family legacy is intertwined with this place. The care the staff have given—not just to Mum, but to our whole family—builds on a foundation of love that spans generations.”
Honouring a legacy: Exclusive behind-the-scenes tours
In recognition of the invaluable contributions of donors who have signed up to regular giving, the Sydney Eye Hospital Foundation offers exclusive, behind-the-scenes tours of the Lucy Osburn-Nightingale Museum.
This special tour invites those who choose to donate to the Foundation on a monthly basis, the opportunity to step back in time and explore the rich history of Sydney Eye Hospital, which has been a cornerstone of care and innovation since its founding in 1788.
The museum houses a fascinating collection of original furnishings, captivating photographs, and historical artefacts that tell the story of the hospital’s journey. Visitors can view surgical instruments from bygone eras, vintage costumes, and even the oldest morbid anatomy specimens in Australia, offering a glimpse into the fascinating and sometimes challenging history of medical advancements.
If you would like to learn more about the museum or sign up to become a regular giver, please contact us.
