Sister Janet

Published to coincide with a BBC2 documentary about Sister Janet, showing on the 8th May. This is the remarkable story of the Florence Nightingale of the Anglo Zulu War, who was only 19 when awarded the Royal Red Cross.

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Janet Wells achievements make for fascinating reading. She was only 18 when decorated for her nursing service to the Russians in the 1878 Balkan War. The following year she became the only nurse to serve at the Front in the Anglo Zulu War. After a period in Northern Zululand she was sent to the garrison at Rorkes Drift very soon after the legendary action. Revered by the soldiers, she had to make do in appalling conditions with scant supplies. She overcame extreme difficulties and prejudice despite her youth.

After returning to England in time for her 20th birthday, her achievements were recognized by the award of the Royal Red Cross the highest accolade and the equivalent of the Victoria Cross.

This is a gripping tale of a true heroine who refused to accept the conventions of the age and in so doing made a huge contribution to the welfare of the British Army.