UCC SONM 25 Year Book

UCC / School of Nursing and Midwifery

Feedback from the students about their trip to Lourdes was extremely positive and uplifting. They spoke about how nervous they were at the beginning and a fear of the unknown as it was so different to the routine in the hospital setting. Each student had a preceptor to work with. They were made feel part of the team and quickly got to know everyone from the helpers to the assisted pilgrims. The students noticed immediately the team spirit evolving as the days went by with everyone working in unison where the assisted pilgrims were at the heart of the pilgrimage. Kindness, patience and laughter filled the air in the hospital where everyone was treated as friends and family. There were no worries, stress or tension making the search for inner peace precious.

These are some of their own memories, in their own words, that will remain with them forever ...

“Lourdes was an amazing experience and one I will never forget. The pilgrims taught me so much about faith and the effect it can have on those suffering both physically and mentally”

“The days were long, starting at 6.30 am and not finishing until 10 pm or 11 pm some nights but it was such a privilege being able to help that it didn’t matter” “Patients need much more than just physical help; it was the emotional and spiritual support that overwhelmed me “It was the moment at the anointing of the sick that really opened up to me what Lourdes really is about. I wasn’t there for myself but purely for the invalids and pilgrims”

“You forget about any minute worries that may have been pondering in our heads at home and just put all your focus in helping these people. It is something I hope that I have brought back to my placement and will continue to throughout my nursing career”

“I feel that the trip brought out the best in everybody”

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