Atlantis Community mourns the loss of Sister Olivia Pharo, a beacon of hope

Atlantis’ very own Florence Nightingale has died.

Sister, Olivia Pharo, 56, of Saxon Sea, who worked at the Wesfleur State Hospital for 24 years and gave up her job to open up her own clinic using her pension money, became a household name.

In 2019, Pharo made headlines when she quit her job for the greater good of her beloved community and their health care.

On September 13, the same community she served under her clinic known as “Sister Pharo’s Primary Health Care” were left reeling in shock when she passed away suddenly.

Pharo, a wife and mother of two’s sudden death was met with a flood of tributes on social media from everyone she met and had an impact on, expressing their shock and  disbelief of her passing.

In a statement via her clinic's Facebook page, news of her untimely death was shared: 

“It is with much sadness that we announce the passing of Olivia Pharo, lovingly known as Atlantis’ very own Florence Nightingale.

“Sister Pharo made an impact to so many and, in so many ways.

“After decades of service, she chose not to rest, but to continue giving back to the community she loved so dearly. With her retirement funds, she built Sister Pharo's Primary Health Care, bringing healthcare to the marginalized and those who needed it most. Her love, care, and strength touched countless lives.

“True to her calling, she served until her very last days.

“She was a leader, a healer, and a true pillar for our community. Her commitment to justice and accessible healthcare will remain an inspiration to all who continue this work.

“We extend our heartfelt prayers and gratitude to her family, Jonathan Pharo, Lauren, and Tammy  for supporting Sr Pharo's  lifelong mission of service and sacrifice.

“May the spirit of Olivia Pharo live forever on, in our hearts, in our minds, and in our every step in the fight for justice and better healthcare for our people.

“Rest in peace, Olivia Pharo. Your legacy of love will never be forgotten - From the Clinic Family & Community of Atlantis.”

Robin-Lee Francke, a IOL senior reporter and former Atlantis resident who knew Pharo personally and had written many articles about her good work, expressed her shock and admiration of a  woman dubbed a “hero.”

“I have known Sister Pharo for a few years now and she always addressed me as: "my kind". We had regular phone calls. She always used to say we needed to check in,” said Francke.

“When I heard of her passing from my mother I went into complete shock. I am so shattered by her death. We had a check-in just about a week ago and spoke for over 45 mins. She was such an amazing person with a vibrant personality who would give her last to the next person. 

“She could have been spending her retirement at home with her family whom she adored, but she was dedicated to serving her community. She was set to start her home-based care course (where unemployed persons could get into the field at least and share her joy for caring for others) in the coming days before her passing. 

“Atlantis is truly in mourning for the woman known as our very own Florence Nightingale."

Pharo had been funding the clinic out of her own pocket and also landed the assistance of an investor and offered many services for  free which included traditional care at the clinic, TB care pregnancy and a dial-a-nurse programme.

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