Nurse who saved toddler from burns retires after 58 years of service

A nurse who saved a toddler from severe burns decades ago has retired after 58 years of service. Wynola Wayne received a heartfelt tribute at her send-off, where the man she once treated called her his guardian angel. In 1965, 15-month-old Marco Houpe suffered third-degree burns over 85% of his body in a Christmas tree fire. He was rushed to Nationwide Children’s Hospital, where Wynola Wayne, a new nurse at the time, took charge of his care. Despite the extent of his injuries, she remained convinced he would survive.

Houpe’s parents later credited Wayne with saving his life. The bond between them endured over the years. Houpe, now a married father of two, works as a school administrator and coach. To honour Wayne, she named her own son after him.

At her retirement, Wayne received a five-minute standing ovation. Houpe escorted her out of the building, marking the end of her long and dedicated career. Wynola Wayne’s retirement closes a chapter after nearly six decades in nursing. Her care for Marco Houpe left a lasting impact on his life and family. The connection between them remained strong long after his recovery.