Nancy "The lifeline": Driving hope on Zimbabwe's r...

Nancy "The lifeline": Driving hope on Zimbabwe's roads

Patience Muchemwa- Senior Reporter

Nancy Simon, a beacon of resilience and compassion, navigates the frenetic world of emergency medical services with the steady hand of a seasoned professional.

At 30, this ambulance operator is more than just a first responder; she's a lifeline, a testament to the power of unwavering determination in a traditionally male-dominated field.

Born into a loving family in Zimbabwe, Nancy's journey was illuminated by the example of her father, a medic whose dedication sparked a lifelong admiration.

"I grew up seeing my father being a medic. Just watching him work and listening to him share stories about his day made me admire his profession. I would always tell myself that one day, I would be like my dad," she recalls, her voice tinged with the warmth of cherished memories. That childhood dream blossomed into a vocation, a calling to serve and save.

Yet, forging a path in a world often defined by stereotypes was no easy feat. "One of the biggest challenges has been the stereotype that women are bad drivers. As women in this field, we had to prove otherwise," Nancy asserts, her determination palpable. She faced the persistent misconception that women lacked the physical strength required for the job.

"People often say that women are not strong enough to lift big patients, but we have proven them wrong time and time again," she says, her words a defiant echo against prejudice.

Her days are a whirlwind of emergency calls, a constant dance between life and death. "What I find most rewarding is being a helper, being the first responder, and bridging the gap between life and death. Knowing that I have helped someone see another day is what keeps me going," she shares, her eyes reflecting the profound satisfaction of her work.

As the world celebrates women's achievements, Nancy's message rings with empowering clarity: "The sky is the limit. No one can ever tell you that you cannot do something. The only person standing between you and your dreams is you, so dream big and never give up."

Her words are a powerful reminder that aspirations know no gender.

Balancing a demanding career with family life requires a delicate equilibrium, but Nancy finds solace in the unwavering support of her loved ones.

"Being around family makes everything seem so easy and is also a great stress reliever. I try by all means to spend quality time with them so that they don’t feel my absence when I am at work," she explains, highlighting the importance of a strong support system.

Beyond the siren's call, Nancy remains deeply connected to her passion for healthcare.

"As much as I love being a medic, I have managed to turn my job into a hobby as well. I serve as a medic for the Zimbabwe Handball Team and also play volleyball with the City of Harare Social Team," she shares, showcasing her commitment to both physical and professional well-being.

For young girls harboring dreams of entering the emergency medical field, Nancy offers a simple yet profound piece of advice: "Don’t let fear keep you from achieving your goal."

Her journey is a vibrant tapestry woven with threads of courage, resilience, and an unwavering belief in the power of dreams.

Nancy "The Lifeline" Simon isn't just driving an ambulance; she's driving change, proving that in the realm of emergency care, compassion and competence know no gender boundaries.