THE NURSE WHO DIED HELPING OTHERS LIVE

Table of Contents

EDITH CAVELL

Edith was a British nurse who worked in Belgium before and during the First World War. In 1907 she became the matron of a new nursing school in Brussels, where she set high standards for training and discipline. Before her work there, nursing was often seen as unskilled labour, and she helped show that it could be a respected profession. Her school trained nurses who later worked in hospitals across Europe, pushing her influence well beyond Brussels.

When Germany invaded Belgium in 1914, Cavell kept her hospital running and cared for wounded soldiers from both sides. She also helped Allied soldiers and some civilians escape occupied Belgium to neutral Netherlands. It was a dangerous endeavour, because German authorities had banned such help. The extent of her network, and how much of its success depended on others is unknown, but it is clear that she chose to help people in need, even when it put her own life at risk.

In August 1915 German authorities arrested Cavell and several of her associates. She admitted to helping soldiers escape, and she was tried by a military court. Although she was a nurse and not a soldier, she was sentenced to death. Many people in neutral countries and in Britain argued that the sentence was harsh, and the Germans were criticized even by some of their own allies. On October 12, 1915, she was executed by firing squad in Brussels.

Her death became a powerful symbol of German cruelty. Recruiting campaigns used her story to encourage men to join the army. Her death generated strong reaction and helped shape how many people viewed the war and the treatment of civilians in occupied lands.

Shortly before her death she is reported to have said to an Anglican chaplain, Reverend H. Stirling Gahan, "patriotism alone is not enough, I must have no hatred or bitterness toward anyone". Her words have been quoted for over a century. After the war, her body was returned to England and buried at Norwich Cathedral. Nursing groups, memorials, and schools around the world still bear her name.

365 men who changed the world.

Kamikun John, Author 366 days of wisdom.