We are heartbroken to share the news that our beloved colleague and friend Tracy-ann, Clinical Educator within the Children’s Nursing Development Unit since 2015, has passed away from complications arising from COVID-19. 

Tracy-ann received exceptional and loving care at Mitchell’s Plain hospital, where she had previously worked as a paediatric nurse. At the time of her death she was being cared for at UCT Private Academic Hospital. We are so grateful to both teams for their compassion and skill.

Tracy-ann fought a fierce battle against COVID-19. She bravely and beautifully strived to remain with the many people who love her, including her husband Richard and their two year old daughter Kirsten, as well as a close-knit family including her mother as well as Carryn, Andrea and Shaun. Tragically, Tracy-ann’s father passed away the day before she died. 

Tracy-ann was a UCT graduate who returned as a highly skilled paediatric nurse specialist to teach new generations of children’s nurses. She obtained her Post Graduate Diploma in Child Nursing from The University of Cape Town in 2014, graduating with distinction. She also received the Henrietta Stockdale award of excellence for academic achievement, leadership and social engagement. These qualities were inherent to her becoming the consummate clinical educator that we were delighted to welcome on to the team late in 2015. 

As fellow student and beloved teacher Tracy-ann has made an enduring impression on children’s nurses, many as friends as well as colleagues. Her deep compassion for children and families, empathy with students, and her encouraging and gentle heart all greatly enriched the growth of children’s nursing in our continent. 

May her dear soul rest in eternal peace. We pray for strength and comfort for her family. May they be consoled by the love of so many who knew her.