Health sector in mourning

By Ilia L Likou 27 December 2017, 12:00AM

The health sector is mourning the passing of a woman widely considered as the “Florence Nightingale” of nursing in Samoa.

The President of the Samoa Nurses Association, Taulapapa Fesolai Talailelotu Faamanatu Faletoese Nielsen, passed away peacefully at the Nurses Home, Moto’otua, last Friday.

She was 84. Born on 3 September 1933, at Lano Moata’a, she’s the fifth of nine siblings.

Her parents are the late Rev. Kenape Tu’u’u Faletoese and Fa’api’omalo Asi Vatau.

She married the love of her life, Fainu’ulelei Etuale Osasa Nielsen, in 1960.

Along with her husband, Taulapapa is survived by her seven children, Farah, Fa’api’o, Edna, Junior Etuale, Fa’amanatu Jr, Pasila and Edwina.

During her service in the nursing sector, Taulapapa won the hearts of many with her dedication towards her work, including her children.

Her son, Ulutautogia Etuale, said so as he expressed grief of the passing away of his mother.

“Our dearest mother was a devoted wife to our father, Fainu’ulelei and everyone,” he said.

“She cherished time with us, especially her field of work at the nursing sector.

“Her special love in helping others was reflected in her work as a registered nurse for many years. 

 “We know for sure that her work in the nursing field for the past 50 years will be remembered.”

Ulutautogia said his mother enjoyed praying, scolding and cooking.

“Faith was also an important aspect of our dearest mother’s life and being an active member of the Congregational Christian Church of Samoa,” he said.

“As I’ve mentioned earlier, our mother was a loving wife and mother, she simply loved, adored and treasured her family especially our children.

“She will be greatly missed.”

Taulapapa attended Sale’imoa Primary and continued on to Malifa (1951-1953) before she became a registered nurse in 1956.

Her first line of duties was at the Savai’i hospitals from 1958-1959.

After her years of dedicated work, she became the President of the Nursing Association in April, 1979.

Taulapapa is one of the longest serving deacons of the Congregational Christian Church at Moata’a.

Her final service is 10am on January 6 at the C.C.C.S. Moata’a.

By Ilia L Likou 27 December 2017, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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