Nurses have dedicated their lives to caring for others. At the end of life, it is essential to return that care and thank them for their unwavering commitment to the community.
Recently, 84-year-old Bernice Englert, pictured with her dear friend Alice Eppolite, was recognized for her military service and lengthy nursing career. Bernice attended Hahnemann Hospital School of Nursing in the 1950s. After graduating, she entered the Air Force where she served six years and then returned to her home in Pennsylvania where she spent almost forty years training nurses. She retired in 1995 and moved to New Jersey. Bernice then found friendship and fun with a small group of retired nurses — who cared for her during serious illness and end of life — and a local choral group called Sweet Adelines International, an a cappella barbershop harmony chorus.
Samaritan honored Bernice with a Nightingale Tribute. The Nightingale Tribute was originally designed to honor deceased nurses and is presented during a nurse’s funeral by a nurse colleague or friend.
However, Samaritan presents an updated version of this moving tribute to our living hospice patients. The honor includes a reading, lighting a candle, and the gift of a white rose. The white rose symbolizes honor and appreciation.
Thank you for your many years as a nurse, Bernice!