Letter: Kirk biographer elaborates

OPINION: I was delighted to read the tribute to the work of Sister Anne Galvin and her excellence as an administrator and nurse. Her care of prime minister Norman Kirk during his last few days was highlighted and the care of all her sisters was a great comfort to him.

But the statement that he admitted himself to the home, rather than stay in Wellington Hospital, because he feared his colleagues might mount a coup if they knew, should be corrected with some facts. Otherwise, it could become part of the myths surrounding his death.

In fact, Mr Kirk was discharged from Wellington Hospital on April 18 after a varicose vein operation. He was very concerned about his slow recovery and, in August, when Professor Beaven of the clinical school in Christchurch wrote to him suggesting he contact Professor O'Donnell at the clinical school, Wellington Hospital, he immediately did so.

Mr O'Donnell examined him, told him he was indeed seriously ill and suggested he enter the Home of Compassion the next day, August 28, because of the high standard of nursing care.

Norman Kirk died on August 31.

MARGARET HAYWARD

Otaki

- © Fairfax NZ News

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