Colleagues and members of PNA-UK Cornwall attend the 60th Florence Nightingale Commemorative Service at Westminster Abbey
On 12 May, members of the Philippine Nurses Association UK (PNA-UK) Cornwall Chapter were honoured to attend the 60th Florence Nightingale Commemorative Service at Westminster Abbey.
The Service has been held annually since 1965, usually on the anniversary of Florence Nightingale’s birth. It brings together healthcare professionals, students and dignitaries to reflect on the timeless values championed by the ‘founder of modern nursing.’ These values include compassion, leadership, innovation and an unwavering commitment to patient care.
The service also provides an opportunity to give thanks, celebrating nurses and midwives everywhere who continue Florence Nightingale’s tremendous legacy.
Febbom Mandawe, Renal Unit Staff Nurse from Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust and Chairman for PNA-UK Cornwall, attended the event. He said:
“I felt a profound sense of connection—to our history, our calling, and to one another. It was a moment to pause and contemplate the very essence of our profession: compassion, integrity, and a deep and enduring commitment to serving those in need.”
Others from Cornwall also shared their reflections on being part of the event:
Ecerlyne Ruiz Cariño–Bagasol, Staff Nurse at Camborne Redruth Community Hospital, and Core Member for PNA-UK Cornwall, said: “Seeing fellow Filipino nurses proudly represented among attendees filled me with immense joy and pride. It served as a powerful reminder of our shared dedication and the global spirit of the nursing profession.”
Marjorie Anne Zumaraga, Staff Nurse at St. Michael’s Hospital, and Treasurer for PNA-UK Cornwall, said: “Reflecting on Florence Nightingale’s remarkable life and enduring legacy inspires me to deliver the highest standard of care to my patients, and in approaching everyone—especially the most vulnerable—with empathy, kindness, and compassion.”
The service featured poignant readings and the symbolic passing of the lamp. This represents the transference of knowledge, alongside moments of reflection on nursing’s continuing impact in today’s healthcare landscape.
Febbom added:
“On behalf of all of us from PNA-UK Cornwall Chapter, attending this event was a powerful reminder of the enduring significance of the nursing profession and the collective responsibility to uphold its core values. Together, we carry Florence Nightingale’s lamp forward — lighting the way for future generations of nurses.”