Commentary for the incomparable Linda Hurrell

By Stanley Collymore

Words can be beautifully crafted and stylishly choreographed to present a marvellous or even a spell-binding impression, but when carefully scrutinized are sadly found, as the initial intention of this fake oration always was, to be utterly meaningless. Also presents, vaingloriously given, can themselves be nothing more than narcissistically engaged-in acts of public exhibition.

However, noble praiseworthiness cannot be marginalized, traduced, compromised or diminished by any wanton display of false exuberance. So from none of these things or other regards of a similar nature, you’ve absolutely nothing to worry about or fear Linda, but rather much to be comfortably proud of.

For your personal mien and overall character: both professionally and individually so, are of such an exemplary disposition that it’s really unnecessary to even mention what’s self-evidently apparent, that you are quite an outstandingly proficient nursing sister Linda, conjoined, of course, with the superbly endowed qualities of being a massively extraordinarily gifted, charismatic, truly personable, impressively well-educated woman, and definitely a most remarkable lady.

Therefore in choosing, as you’ve consciously done, to retire in your youthful years – a respectful decision that we fully understand and are very supportive of – we nevertheless do openly confess that you’ll definitely and most sorely be enormously missed. But despite the innermost pangs of sorrow that your impending departure will leave in our hearts, minds, fondest affections and indelible recollections, even so with eternal gratitude we all of us, individually and collectively, wish you Linda, your loving husband and adoring family every happiness, and a long future together comprised of the very best.

The essence of true friendship and authentic human worth are unquantifiable; but what is genuinely known and readily accepted, is that their marvellous and enlivening conceptions are unquestionably the outcome of an astutely, well-rounded and inspirational environment in which these salient qualities are both assiduously nurtured and supportively reinforced. Thus causing the exceptional and fortunate recipient of these laudable attributes to be distinguishably, and markedly so, vastly separated from the average run-of-the-mill, easily manipulated and invariably strikingly unthinking – due to a pronounced and deeply ingrained inability to either acquire or deploy the requite skills to be otherwise – compliant conformist.

That’s why no one can or would ever dare to crassly accuse you, Linda of being the latter; and why among your many other outstanding attributes you’re so highly and just regarded. Accounting too, for why as a former British NHS nurse myself, prior to leaving the service and then subsequently becoming an Academic, having always unalterably been a staunch devotee and distinct, deferential admirer of Mary Jane Seacole: herself an unchallengeable proponent and diligent innovator of what have long since been universally recognized and decisively acknowledged as the foundation of modern day, nursing techniques, the significant contributions that you yourself  have also and subsequently made to the nursing profession, Linda will, I’m absolutely sure forever and most gratefully be remembered and revered as your outstanding legacy.

So heartfelt gratitude to you Linda; have a happy and enjoyable retirement; and may God’s bountiful blessings be eternally bestowed on you.