Pricilla Williams is the first friendly smile you will meet as you enter the TCA building. Pricilla has been the receptionist at TCA since 2007. Whether the milk is finished, the phone is ringing, stock needs to be taken, or visitors are arriving, Pricilla is the go-to person, bringing some order into chaotic days.
Pricilla has worked here through many changes and growth – from the days that we were relying on volunteers to do all our driving (these days we have a driver). What she enjoys most about her work is the interaction with staff and other people. “Every day is so different – you never know exactly what to expect, but that keeps is interesting. You can have a perfectly planned day, but when a child spikes a temperature, it can change your whole day.”
Volunteers that have served at ThembaCare stand out as a highlight for her. “People who have been faithful throughout the years, who keep returning.” Another highlight for her is working with many skillful people. “I have worked with the most wonderful nursing staff. People who have brought a wealth of knowledge and implemented a lot of new things here.” “The relationships I have built here have been very valuable to me. People are really caring.” Employing a driver has also made a job a lot easier. “Previously we had to urgently phone around to find volunteers to drive children to the hospital for appointments.”
Pricilla’s face lights up when she speaks about the children. “There have been children where we have really held our breath…and to see them pull through and get discharged home is always so delightful.” Pricilla has seen many children go through the doors of ThembaCare and she still remembers many of them clearly. “As for many of us Asi stands out…it has been a long road for him with us.” “Little Felicity* also stands out…she came here as a tiny little baby and grew into the cutest, chubby little girl. It is always so sad to see them go”
Before I have a chance to ask more questions the bell rings and Pricilla has to rush off the open the door – then she has to go and make sure there are enough gloves, nappies and wipes for the long-weekend. Part of her job is indeed to make sure all the little things work together – making it so much easier for medical team to take good care of the babies!
*pseudonym
