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Hospital staff and young patient1975
Dr. Walter Templeman Health Centre, Wabana, Bell Island, Newfoundland, Canada
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For a number of reasons there has always been a tight-knit community on Bell Island. People lived and died there, shared in the wealth of their successes and together grieved their misfortunes. In times of need and isolation they relied on one another to get by, and this sense of family still exists there today.3
Artist's rendering of the redesigned hospital14 March 2006
Dr. Walter Templeman Health Centre, Wabana, Bell Island, Newfoundland, Canada
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When the Dr. Walter Templeman Health Centre was built, it was a source of great pride for all involved. Not only was it partially paid for out of the pockets of residents, it was also a symbol of the community's determination and will power.5
Homes on Bell Island : Arthur Morgan interview2000
Bell Island, Newfoundland, Canada
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In many situations the hospital staff on Bell Island went above and beyond the call of duty. They cared for the community in ways that can not be found in large urban centres. On their days off, nurses would visit people at home just to say hello and see how they were doing. They were also sympathetic to the struggles of larger families on the island, often accommodating them in a time of need.7
Hospital staff at ChristmasDecember, 1970
Dr. Walter Templeman Health Centre, Wabana, Bell Island, Newfoundland, Canada
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The hospital was the centre of many activities and celebrations. During Christmas holidays the staff would liven up the rooms and hallways with decorations and the local senior residents that lived in the hospital's long term care ward would receive a visit from Santa Claus. The nurses would also make a special point to commemorate the birthdays of long term care residents, inviting family and other long term care residents to celebrate with them. Although the seniors were living in a community hospital, the staff of the Dr. Walter Templeman Health Centre tried their best to make sure that the residents felt at home, as if living with their own family. Other events, such as the purchase of a new ambulance, gave the staff an opportunity to gather the patients and community together for a celebration.9
Hospital staff Christmas partyDecember, 1975
Bell Island, Newfoundland, Canada
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Hospital staff Christmas partyDecember, 1970
Bell Island, Newfoundland, Canada
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Hospital staff Christmas partyDecember, 1970
Bell Island, Newfoundland, Canada
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Hospital staff Christmas partyDecember, 1970
Bell Island, Newfoundland, Canada
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Christmas party for Hospital staffDecember, 1970
Bell Island, Newfoundland, Canada
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Staff Christmas partyDecember, 1970
Bell Island, Newfoundland, Canada
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