Opening of the Mary Seacole ward
The Mary Seacole ward opened on Friday 26 October in the new building. The ward was officially opened by Professor Elizabeth Anionwu, a professor of nursing who was formerly head of the Mary Seacole Centre for Nursing Practice. She is also vice-chairperson for the Mary Seacole Memorial Statue Appeal and has been driven by the multi-ethnic aspects of nursing.Mary Seacole was a pioneering nurse, funding her own journey to Crimea to aid wounded soldiers during the war. Born in 1805 to a Jamaican mother and a Scottish soldier, Mary was undaunted by her mixed race, overcoming prejudice throughout her life. An avid traveller, she incorporated European medical ideas with her knowledge of traditional medicine. She died in 1881 and her reputation has been rivalled with that of Florence Nightingale.
The opening of the ward was in keeping with celebrating Black History Month. The Whittington is amidst a multicultural London and Mary Seacole is a wonderful role model to our black and ethnic minority staff. Eddie K, hospital DJ, ended the day with a celebration in the Waterlow unit, playing classic reggae music in honour of Mary Seacole and Black History Month.
Last updated29 Oct 2007