1959-2021

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Kamala was an invaluable and unforgettable dental nurse. From 2004-2020, she was based at Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust's Hillingdon Community Dental Referral Service. Whilst there, she worked cordially with many clinicians and support staff including: dentists, dental therapists and hygienists; and specialists in periodontics, prosthodontics, endodontics, orthodontics, paediatrics and special care dentistry.

Initially working in retail, Kamala was drawn to the healthcare field because of the caring and altruistic facets. In 1992, she seized an opportunity to work as a trainee dental nurse at a practice in Ealing. Qualifying in 1994, Kamala went on to work in several practices within West London. From 1999, she worked at Central Middlesex Hospital, assisting the oral and maxillofacial surgery department. Kamala preferred working in more dynamic, multi-professional settings, leading her to join the Harrow and Hillingdon Community Dental Referral Service in 2000.

Kamala welcomed challenges and change. In 1999, she successfully achieved her certificate in Oral Health Promotion from Queen Mary University of London. Afterwards, she eagerly empowered patients and their accompanying parties by providing them with relevant preventive advice, instructions and demonstrations. Kamala was particularly passionate about oral health education. Over the years, she joyfully delivered numerous oral health promotion events throughout Hillingdon within schools, libraries and care homes, amongst others.

Whether it be nursing, decontamination, reception, administrative duties or preparing noticeboards, Kamala was always willing to get involved. She was hardworking, generous and empathetic, always ready to help others. Kamala was also very sociable and talkative, possessing a witty sense of humour; this made her popular with staff and patients.

Kamala was happily married to Thomas. She was also a dedicated sister and a doting aunt. Kamala enjoyed socialising with friends, hosting dinner parties and entertaining others. She loved travelling abroad, going on cruise ship holidays and experiencing different cultures. Kamala also had deep interests in religion and spirituality; she was a devoted Jehovah's Witness and enjoyed preaching, and sharing her knowledge and wisdom with others.

In November 2019, Kamala celebrated 20 worthwhile years working for NHS trusts. Retiring in March 2020, she had several exciting plans for her retirement. Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, these plans could not be realised. Kamala sadly passed away from COVID-19 at Ealing Hospital on 29 January 2021. She is missed immensely by her family, friends, congregation, colleagues who worked with her and patients.

Bhaven Modha