The Northern Free State Caregivers (NFSCG) in Kroonstad’s guest speaker at its first monthly meeting for the year was the inspiring 84-year-old Sr Marie-Therese McLoughlin of the Notre Dame St Peter’s School (NDSPS), based in Kroonstad.
She gave a motivational talk to members of the NFSCG on 13 February, with the theme of spiritual care and support for caregivers. She said everybody should have companionship with each other because we are all on the same journey.
She told caregivers that they must know what inspires them to take care of others, and that they must have a strong relationship with God before they can succeed in this role. According to her, building a personal relationship with patients and listening to them are important skills for a caregiver.
“Speaking the truth and to ensure patients understand their reality is of utmost importance. Build on your relationship with other caregivers in the group. They are your companions on the same journey,” she said.
Felicity Combrinck, chairperson of the NFSCG, said its members were very grateful and thankful for the wonderful and inspiring message.
McLoughlin is a fifth generation South African immigrant, originating from Ireland, and has been part of the Notre Dame convent for the last 56 years. She is a born Capetonian who has travelled the world in her capacity as a Catholic sister to deliver services in communities where a need has been identified.
Last year in May, Sr Marie skydived in order to raise support for a sustainability fund and school feeding fund in aid of the NDSPS, which she did successfully.
