Personal Essay on the History of Neonatal Nursing: Looking Back to See the Road Ahead

'I have known Kaye for greater than 35 years. Although my paediatric career differed from Kaye's, I have very clear memories of those early days. I was struck by the pivotal, inspiring and ground-breaking work that those women were doing and the intense challenges the neonates presented. The neonatal care landscape was rapidly changing. Those pioneer nurses were riding a wave, forging ahead with great strides in developing such remarkable improvements in special 'care' practices for neonates. Those working lives and the camaraderie outlined here provided a foundation and this goes from strength to strength today. The book pays a remarkable tribute to not only Kaye and the development of neonatal nursing in Australia, but it also plots a significant national historical achievement, and it reflects Kaye's professional testimony. The memories outlined in this book, mark the contributions of so many other like-minded people both in Australia and internationally and is also a tribute to those people. Kaye's legacy will be long-lasting as so many nurses have benefited from her professional support, her enduring friendship, and her determined passionate nursing leadership style. I hope you enjoy the essays as much as I did. Neonatal nurses should feel uniquely proud to have someone like Kaye in your midst and someone who has been a powerhouse pioneer for neonatal nursing in this country.'Fiona Wade