Newfoundland retired nurse washed sick patients’ hair every Saturday for more than 20 years

Mary Keiley, a retired nurse and teacher in Newfoundland, was recently recognized for her outstanding volunteer work that spanned over two decades. She was awarded a Confederation Medal for her dedication to helping bedridden hospital patients by washing their hair.

Keiley’s journey to becoming a volunteer hair washer started during her stay at a sanatorium for tuberculosis in the 1960s. Patients were not allowed to wash their own hair, which inspired Keiley to make a difference in the lives of those in similar situations. Shortly after retiring in 1994, she began her weekly visits to St. Clare’s Mercy Hospital in St. John’s, armed with shampoo and a washing tray.

Over the years, Keiley and another retired nurse, Joanne Noonan Hogan, washed the hair of countless patients, providing not only cleanliness but also a sense of care and comfort. Despite initial resistance from some nurses who viewed it as encroaching on their duties, Keiley’s volunteer work soon became an integral part of patient care at the hospital.

The process of washing a patient’s hair required patience and skill, as they had to be careful around any medical devices or sensitive areas. Keiley and Hogan’s dedication to this task resulted in thousands of patients benefitting from their kindness and compassion.

One particular moment that stood out to Keiley was when she washed the hair of a 100-year-old Sister Mary Xavierius, who passed away later that day. Sister Mary’s last words reflected the impact of Keiley’s volunteer work, expressing gratitude for the women in her life.

Keiley’s commitment to volunteering extended beyond hair washing. She was actively involved in the hospital auxiliary group and her nursing school’s alumni group, showcasing her dedication to serving others in various capacities.

Although Keiley was hesitant to accept recognition for her volunteer work, she hoped that her story would inspire other retired nurses and teachers to get involved in their local hospitals. She emphasized the importance of small acts of kindness in patient care and the positive impact it can have on both the patients and volunteers.

Keiley’s story serves as a reminder of the profound impact that simple gestures of kindness can have on those in need. Her selfless dedication to helping others exemplifies the true spirit of volunteerism and community service.