Several generations of graduates from the Silliman University College of Nursing could almost hear the questions posed by their beloved professor, Dean Tessie Sinda: “What is the pathophysiology of the diagnosis? What is the medical management? What is the nursing care management? What are the preventive measures?”
Dr. Teresita Sy-Sinda was the ultimate nurse educator, and she actualized her favorite expression: “Make it happen!”
Actually, her main goal was to challenge each and every student to approximate her standards of excellence. She expected of others what she expected of herself. If you did not know of her existing health issues, she defied all predictions by working till the very last day.
When the time came when she was called to face her Creator, she had lived a full active life, and had done all that she had to do, beyond all expectations.
Tessie married her college sweetheart Walter Sinda, who always supported her endeavors. They had all the chances to immigrate to the United States, but they decided to come home for good.
Their sons, Botyok, an engineer, and Ken, a doctor, were the jewels of her life. In spite of her numerous commitments, she made sure that she never neglected her duties as a mother.
Tessie is gone physically, but the footsteps she left in the annals of the history of the Silliman University College of Nursing will live on.
It is a challenge to those who come after her to maintain her standards of excellence.
We join the prayers for the eternal repose of the soul of Dr. Teresita Sy-Sinda on her journey to the “mansion in the sky”.
Rest in peace, Tess! You have done a good job and for that, you will be remembered!
