Combating coronavirus: UAE hospital surprises emergency room nurse with birthday cake

Abu Dhabi - The nurse and medical staff attend to hundreds of patients daily at the hospital.

Offering some respite to frontline healthcare workers, a hospital in Abu Dhabi marked birthday of a nurse who serves patients in the emergency department.
Anju Ambidas, staff nurse, Medeor Hospital, Abu Dhabi, was pleasantly surprised as management team turned up with a cake. Amid ongoing efforts to contain the spread of Covid-19, she didn't realise it was her birthday on Wednesday, April 29.
"I had no idea about what was happening. Frankly, it never occurred to me that it was my birthday. Normally, we have celebrations at the hospital by month end, so this came as a surprise. At home, we normally cut a cake and go out for dinner but we made no plans today as it is Covid-19. And since I am working in the emergency department, I had no chance to celebrate," Anju said.
The nurse and medical staff attend to hundreds of patients daily at the hospital. And such an unexpected celebration has turned out to be a memorable one for Anju.
"Nowadays, our entire focus is on offering our support to fight the deadly virus. But today's celebration truly surprised me. I thank everyone at Medeor Hospital for their wishes. It is going to be one of the most memorable birthday celebrations I ever had," she added.
First celebration in two months
Caroline Ellis, assistant HR manager, said it was first birthday celebration held at the hospital for more than two months.
"The usual process is to wish staff through an email. A card with their photo is put on all notice boards. And every month-end, we hold a mega birthday celebration for all staffers. But with the outbreak of Covid-19 we had to stop this."
However, the management decided to create a special moment for those rendering selfless service to the community. "Our nurses and doctors are working longer hours. They are our superheroes. Their selfless sacrifice, commitment to society and dedication at work has to be acknowledged. So we decided to surprise Anju with a birthday cake. She was very happy. From now, we would do more of this. These are special moments which would make them happy amidst their tough daily schedules."
ashwani@khaleejtimes.com 

• Abu Dhabi