In the bustling corridors of South Goa District Hospital, Richal Fernandes stands out not just for her clinical expertise but for the genuine compassion she brings to every interaction. A registered nurse with four years of hands-on experience, Richal represents the heart of healthcare—where empathy meets resilience, and where science is balanced by the human touch.
The Beginning: A Calling, Not Just a Career
What drew Richal to nursing was never a simple career choice—it was a deep-seated desire to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. The ability to combine critical thinking with empathy and technical skill was a natural fit for her compassionate nature and sense of responsibility. Her journey from the rigors of nursing school to the demanding yet fulfilling role she holds today has been defined by long hours, personal sacrifice, and unwavering dedication. She recalls the double shifts and sleepless nights, which, though challenging, helped her grow into the resilient professional she is now.
Walking the Extra Mile
Currently serving in the psychiatric wing under the Tele-MANAS program—a 24/7 government-run telecounseling service—Richal offers mental health support to individuals across Goa. She finds deep purpose in this role, particularly in connecting with patients who need someone to listen, guide, and support them through invisible struggles. Her work doesn’t end at the hospital; Richal also conducts home visits for patients unable to reach medical facilities, a testament to her commitment to holistic care.
A typical day for Richal begins like anyone else’s, but once she steps into her role, every moment becomes about trust-building, communication, and connection. She values the bonds she creates with her patients, finding joy in helping them understand their treatment and in being a source of comfort during vulnerable times.
Facing Challenges with Grace
Nursing is no easy job, and Richal acknowledges the toll it can take—both physically and emotionally. From managing entire wards alone due to staff shortages to navigating emotional exhaustion, she’s faced some of the toughest days with resilience. Still, she remains undeterred, drawing strength from her family’s unwavering support and her own sense of purpose.
Despite the demands, Richal has never seen workload as a burden. “I always knew this wasn’t an easy profession,” she says, “but I was prepared for the challenges that come with caring for others.”
Growth Through Learning
Committed to lifelong learning, Richal stays current with medical advances through seminars, webinars, and trusted online sources. She believes that good communication, compassion, and a patient-centered approach are non-negotiable skills for any nurse. In her eyes, the focus should always remain on the person behind the condition, which is where real healing begins.
The Power of Teamwork
For Richal, nursing is never a one-person show. In a hospital setting, collaboration is crucial, and she emphasizes the value of a cohesive and understanding team. Whether it’s doctors, fellow nurses, or support staff, collective input often leads to the best outcomes for patients. This teamwork, she believes, enhances patient care and ensures that every individual receives well-rounded attention.
Personal Evolution Through Nursing
Beyond professional skills, nursing has transformed Richal on a personal level. She credits her experiences with patients for teaching her empathy, patience, gratitude, and the importance of living in the moment. Each patient’s story, their resilience in the face of pain or adversity, has shaped her into a more reflective and grounded person.
Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Nurses
To those contemplating a future in nursing, Richal offers candid advice: “Be prepared for a journey filled with challenges, but also with unmatched rewards. Stay curious, communicate openly, and always lead with empathy.” If she could speak to her younger self, she’d say this—“Don’t chase perfection. Learn from your mistakes, trust yourself, and remember why you started.”
Looking Ahead
As she looks to the future, Richal envisions continuing her education, specializing in a field that aligns with her passions, and mentoring the next generation of nurses. She also hopes to contribute to healthcare innovations that can redefine patient care for the better.
Her message to fellow nurses is one of unity: “Let’s keep lifting each other up.” And to the public, she expresses heartfelt gratitude—“Thank you for trusting us with your care. We are here with compassion, dedication, and the promise to always give our best.”
Richal Fernandes is more than just a nurse; she is a beacon of hope, healing, and humanity in a world that often forgets the faces behind the scrubs. Through every patient she meets and every life she touches, she reaffirms what nursing is truly about—being there, wholly and selflessly, when it matters most.
