This week it will be one year ago since we lost our beloved colleague and friend Wouter Nolet. Without a doubt, we would have preferred to come together in an intimate group to seek support and comfort, but unfortunately the pandemic force us to find other ways to reach out to each other. Therefore, we want to use this platform to gather.
Words are still hard to find and feels insufficient or shallow when we try to describe our feelings. Emotions are many, ranging from anger, grief and many reflections on what if we did this or that instead during your last struggle. An emotion growing stronger the last year is gratitude. We find gratitude to have had chance to know you for a short while. Gratitude for the way you touched us and now continue to inspire us. As we are approaching one year since you left us and on this day that was your birthday we want to hold on to the gratitude.
Wouter, you were a social magnet that made those around you feel well, seen and part of the group. Your attentive and kind personality, always fully present in the moment created an atmosphere of belonging. One year ago today on your last birthday you were evacuated back to the Netherlands. A frew days later we would lose a great colleague, friend and a great professional. The combination of your enthusiasm and passion motivated those around you. You created a spirit that made us do our very best to improve the life of our fellow neighbours and work towards a better health care system in Sierra Leone. As we have been working so closely together, it has taken time for it to sink in that you are really no longer there. We miss you dearly and find some comfort that we are allowed to continue to carry your passion forward!
Our thoughts are with all you touched with your presence Wouter! Thank you for the time we were allowed to share with you! Thank you for creating togetherness. Let us be together these days!
On behalf of CapaCare International and CapaCare Norway – Håkon and Alex
