I HAD mixed feelings last July 9, 2022, when the Ateneo de Davao University School of Nursing (SON) finally had its capping and pinning ceremony after two years of not celebrating it due to the pandemic.
The event started with a mass, presided by Fr. Ramon Prudencio S. Toledo, S.J., who inspired and uplifted future young nurses in his homily.
After the mass was the capping and pinning ceremony, where all observed social distancing, and the parents of the candidates stayed at home and watched the event on Facebook Live. In the procession, I felt the atmosphere of excitement and triumph of the students. It was just like the whole venue was pure and white, like angels ready to battle to protect the wounded, sick and vulnerable.
I appreciated their discipline, even when forming lines, staying awake, and keeping interested in the almost six-hour event.
When Dr. Liza G. Floresca gave the opening remarks, it was full of hope. It motivates both the students to give more and the clinical instructors to continue molding the best nurses in the world.
I felt the joy of a new beginning we all have been waiting for in her speech. Undoubtedly, the SON will continue to produce world-class nurses with the unflinching willpower to give care, making a big difference in people’s lives.
Another beautiful thing was to hear the inspirational words of Mr. Megeve Sumampong, MBA, MAN, RN. We heard about his experiences of storms in the profession, but still, he chose to stay as a nurse. He said he was not the strongest and the quickest, but he believed in himself. He was clear that when one perseveres, the person eventually will get his rewards. What a very inspiring message!
I also then remember what it is really to become a nurse. Ms. Magnolia May A. Jadulang, RN, MN, the RLE Coordinator, presented the significance of the nursing cap, the pin, and the lamp. She emphasizes what symbolizes all, that it reflects nurses’ passion and roles to care. Hence will guide the path of nurses to care at all costs. Oh, I remember my oath 26 years ago, which I am trying my best to keep today.
And what a beautiful experience to see all the students sing the capping hymn entitled “As we begin”, composed by Catherine Lim-Siapno, RN, MN. I was looking at all the students singing, led by Ms. Melba Gabuya, RN, MN, with enthusiasm. They are so proud to follow that voice within them, to dance in the tune of caring, to live their lives through service and caring, for service is humanity.
Oh, I am singing now, as those are a few of the song’s lyrics.
Oh, July 9, 2022, will always be unforgettable, not only because, at last, we had the capping ceremony after two years. The event became solemn and organized; it was overwhelming to feel the joy and fulfillment of the students on their capping and pinning, which is once in a lifetime.
The team working on the capping and pinning committee, headed by Michael Francis H.
Cahandig, RN, MN, was exceptional. Despite the limited preparation time and other trials, the event became so beautiful, “tagos sa puso”, indeed.
Even if my memory fails, I know that the 18th capping and pinning ceremony will forever remain a precious moment in my life. Because it was also the day I saw my daughter and my life “Bea” first wear her nursing cap and pin. I guess this is the reason why I had mixed feelings in the beginning. God, it was one of the precious moments that completed me, and none can ever fill. I love you, anak!