Nurse Hermina Aurelia Djogo has dedicated ten years to Cinta Kasih (Great Love) Tzu Chi Hospital in Cengkareng, Jakarta. For her, nursing is more than just a job; it is a profound mission. Her journey, initially guided by her parents' wishes, blossomed into a calling marked by genuine care and unwavering support for those in need.

A Path of Dedication

Born in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, Hermina was the first in her family to enter the medical field. After graduating from nursing school, she spent three years serving at the SOS Children's Villages in Cibubur. In 2015, she applied to Cinta Kasih Tzu Chi Hospital (then known as Cinta Kasih Tzu Chi Polyclinic). Her initial application was rejected due to incomplete documents, but her determination led her to follow up with the human resources department, eventually securing her position on July 1, 2015.

Starting her new role presented challenges, particularly her long commute, which often caused her to be late. Recognizing her dedication, the hospital provided a solution by arranging accommodation and adjusting her work schedule to the outpatient department. This experience showed Hermina that the hospital was not just a workplace but a supportive family that cared for its employees. From her first day, she embraced the hospital's philosophy, stating, "It's not important who we serve, but whether we serve with all our heart."

A Bicycle for Recovery

Hermina's nursing career is filled with touching stories, but one that stands out is her care for Khairin, a tuberculosis patient. When he first arrived at the hospital, he was poorly dressed and without shoes, his face reflecting the hardships of his life. During her assessment, Hermina discovered he wasn't taking his medication regularly, which is crucial for tuberculosis treatment. "I felt deeply for his situation and knew I had to find a way for him to receive consistent treatment," she recalled.

She learned that Khairin had to walk long distances for each appointment. His daily income from selling bananas, ranging from 10,000 to 30,000 Indonesian Rupiah (approximately 0.60 to 1.81 USD), was barely enough for food, leaving nothing for transportation. Moved by his plight, Hermina decided to lend him her bicycle. This simple act enabled Khairin to attend his appointments on time. With her consistent encouragement and the use of the bicycle, he completed his treatment, and subsequent imaging showed significant improvement in his condition.

"It felt wonderful," Hermina said, her eyes shining. "I accompanied him from beginning to end until he truly recovered. I was very satisfied with his test results, and it made me feel like my goal was achieved." Although Khairin later required intensive care for other complications, his story remains a testament to how a small act of kindness can save a life and inspire hope for recovery.

Quiet Acts of Support

Another poignant moment involved an infant with a milk allergy. The doctor prescribed a special formula, but its cost was far beyond the parents' means. The father sold their only mobile phone to buy the formula, leaving them unable to afford diapers. As the parents desperately sought to borrow money, Hermina quietly purchased diapers for them, telling them, "These were donated by someone." Hearing this, the parents were moved to tears, expressing their gratitude: "We are truly grateful to receive medical care here and to have met so many good people."

Cinta Kasih Tzu Chi Hospital has also invested in Hermina's professional development, providing her with a scholarship to pursue further studies at STIK Sint Carolus and arranging specialized training in hemodialysis. Starting in September 2025, she will assume the role of head of the hemodialysis department. For her, this is not just a personal achievement but a significant responsibility and entrustment.

Hermina is also the mother of a 1-year-old, and her husband provides unwavering support. Her parents have always encouraged her, and her father even experienced the hospital's compassionate care firsthand as a patient. For Hermina, nursing is more than a profession; it is a path for self-cultivation. She has learned patience, sincerity, and selfless dedication. "In my ten years here, all my wishes have come true one by one. I feel like working here is like being at home, and my colleagues are like family," she shared with a smile. Her journey shines as a warm light, illuminating her own life and the lives of others.

Written by Khusnul Khotimah

Source: 慈濟金卡蓮大愛醫院的暖心護理師 為病人帶來希望