A Nurse’s Impact During COVID-19 Pandemic

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, heroes have emerged from every corner of the globe, demonstrating resilience, compassion, and innovation in the face of unprecedented challenges.

Among these heroes is Ms Lauretta Nwangene, a registered nurse and manager based in Canada, whose efforts have not only impacted her local community but have reached across borders to benefit individuals in Nigeria, her motherland.
Born and raised in Nigeria, Ms Nwangene has always been deeply connected to her roots and felt a profound sense of responsibility towards her homeland, especially during these tumultuous times.

As a manager in a Canadian healthcare facility, she recognized the urgent need for education and support, particularly among vulnerable populations. Drawing from her expertise and personal commitment, she embarked on a mission to empower Nigerians with knowledge and practical assistance.

One remarkable initiative spearheaded by Ms Nwangene was the fundraising efforts she organized within her network. Understanding the dire circumstances faced by many in Nigeria, she reached out to colleagues, organizations and generous donors, appealing for contributions to support COVID-19 relief efforts.

Through grassroots initiatives such as social media campaigns and word-of-mouth appeals, she successfully mobilized resources to procure essential supplies, including personal protective equipment (PPE), hygiene kits, and medical supplies.

These materials were not just items on a checklist; they were lifelines for frontline workers and vulnerable communities in Nigeria. From the bustling streets of Lagos to the rural villages of the South-Eastern region, Ms Nwangene’s contributions made a tangible impact, equipping healthcare facilities and local organizations with the tools they desperately needed to safeguard lives and curb the spread of the virus.

Understanding the importance of a multidisciplinary team approach towards achieving her goal, Ms Nwangene collaborated with grassroot professionals, organizations and generous donors to ensure that these materials got to healthcare workers who really needed them during the pandemic.

For example, Mr Okechukwu, an environmental expert, a seasoned professional brewer, and undergraduate colleague, who is an active member of Rotary international club in Lagos volunteered to work with Ms. Nwangene to carry out COVID-19 sensitization campaigns at the local government level throughout Lagos.

He was also instrumental in ensuring that medical supplies, PPE and hygiene kits were evenly distributed to primary and secondary health centers through the Rotary international club.

Another instance was strategic partnership with Mrs Blessing Ike, Founder and Executive Director of an organization that is actively involved in the welfare and human rights of senior citizens. This collaborative effort yielded meaningful alignment with the Federal Government of Nigeria’s commitment to ensuring that the vulnerable members of society are adequately catered to.

Ms. Nwangene harnessed education’s power to empower Nigerians through virtual training on various topics, including COVID-19 prevention. Her engaging sessions equipped participants with practical strategies, fostering a supportive learning environment and turning attendees into health ambassadors within their communities.

Ms. Nwangene’s impact is exemplified by Miss Salami, an Abule-based entrepreneur. After attending one of the virtual sessions, Salami initiated a grassroots campaign in her community, distributing masks and hand sanitizers to street vendors and taxi drivers, ensuring vital protection for marginalized individuals.

Furthermore, Ms Nwangene collaborated with educationists from Nigeria to foster public enlightenment on COVID-19. Working together with Mr Emmanuel Odiachi, an undergraduate colleague from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, who doubles as an Environmental Health Specialist and certified environmental educator, she was able to carry out sensitization campaigns to engage and empower local residents adapt to the changes in lifestyle caused by the pandemic and offer COVID education classes to grassroots essential workers.

Her efforts extended beyond urban centers to underserved areas like Aba, where she mobilized education sessions and internet access for essential information dissemination on COVID-19 guidance in their native language.

As the world grappled with uncertainty and fear, Ms Nwangene stood as a symbol of resilience and compassion, embodying the spirit of global solidarity in the face of adversity. Her grassroots approach to fundraising and education exemplifies the power of individual action in effecting meaningful change, transcending borders, and barriers to bring hope to those who need it most. In a time of darkness, Ms Nwangene shines brightly, illuminating a path towards a safer and healthier future for all.”