Not even a physical disability could stop Hester Visagie from achieving her goals. The 58-year-old recently received a standing ovation as she walked the University of Johannesburg (UJ) graduation stage to receive her PhD in Nursing Science.
Dr. Visagie has dedicated the last 38 years to the nursing profession. “I believe in teamwork and empowering others. Nurses don’t always realise their value, yet they are at the core of health services,” she says.
Advancing psychiatric nursing
Driven by this belief, Dr. Visagie pursued further studies, particularly in psychiatric research, which she has been involved in since 1993. In 2020, she obtained her Master of Nursing Science in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing at UJ. Describing her career as one focused on helping and caring, she emphasizes the importance of integrating theory and practice.
“I did teaching, nursing education, and administration. Later, I pursued a Masters in Psychiatric Research, focusing on the development of cognitive behavioural therapy,” Dr. Visagie explains. She aimed to educate nurses in her ward about psychiatry, the significance of group work, and the impactful role of patient treatment. “It was also about helping nurses realise their potential. With empathy, skills, and education, they become their best tools. The nurses I worked with were eager to learn and supported me throughout this journey.”
The university’s support and innovation reinforced her decision to continue her studies at UJ. “UJ integrates theory and practice with high-quality teaching. During the COVID-19 pandemic, UJ swiftly transitioned to online learning, allowing us to continue our studies seamlessly.”
Dr. Visagie’s PhD thesis, titled “A Model to Assist Psychiatric Nurses in Facilitating Constructive Group Therapy for Patients with Mood Disorders,” was supervised by Prof. Annie Temane, Acting Executive Dean of the Department of Nursing, with co-supervision by Prof. Marie Poggenpoel.
Overcoming personal challenges
A few months into the pandemic, Dr. Visagie was involved in a freak motor accident, sustaining a spinal injury that required surgery. Post-surgical complications resulted in a physical disability, necessitating the use of a foot brace and a crutch. “It was a huge concern for me as I was no longer as mobile, but Prof. Temane and Prof. Poggenpoel immediately accommodated me, arranging for online supervision sessions,” she recalls.
“Dr. Visagie was a committed and independent PhD student who participated effectively in her studies. She was self-motivated, self-disciplined, passionate, and curious,” said Prof. Temane.
Dr. Visagie received the necessary support to ensure her graduation was accessible, with her family, including her parents and three children, there to celebrate with her. “I was worried about how to manage, but the support was excellent. I had quality mentors who saw me as a human being. My graduation was a marvellous and special experience.”
While Dr. Visagie is considering a postdoctoral degree, she now focuses on providing value to her peers through nursing education. “A person is never too old to learn,” she concludes.
