A trailblazer in the medical administration field, Hannah-Reeve Sanders passed away during June at the age of 96.
Described as “an exceptional role model for women in the health professions”, Dr Sanders was awarded a Doctor of Medicine degree honoris causa by the University of Cape Town – an achievement recorded in the Cape Jewish Chronicle in February 1999.
Two highlights of her medical career are:
● Her appointment as Chief Medical Superintendent and Chief Executive of Groote Schuur Hospital, roles she filled from 1976 to 1986
● Her appointment as Chief Director and Senior Deputy of Hospital and Health Services in the Cape Provincial Administration. This position made her the first woman to serve at that level in South Africa’s Public Service.
Dr Sanders is remembered for her role in fighting racial discriminatory practices in the public health services, including the opening up of general wards at Groote Schuur to people of all races at the height of apartheid.
In terms of her family background, Hannah-Reeve Sanders was born into the Katzeff family of Piketberg. Both her parents were Lithuanian immigrants to South Africa and, despite their religion and very different cultures, her family was embraced by the local Afrikaans community, who respected them for their knowledge of the Old Testament. She grew up speaking Afrikaans at home.
Throughout her life, including during the years of her retirement, Dr Sanders gave of her time and expertise to a range of organisations in the medical field, as well as to the Mauerberger Foundation.
Dianna M. Yach, the Chairperson of the Mauerberger Foundation Fund, remembers Dr Sanders with fondness, stating: “Dr Hanna-Reeve Sanders was a pioneering leader, compassionate advocate and cherished friend who served as a Director of the Mauerberger Foundation Fund for many years. Dr Sanders was more than a leader; she was a mentor and a beacon of hope. Her guidance and support were invaluable to the Mauerberger Foundation Fund, where her wisdom and friendship will be deeply missed. She leaves behind a legacy of integrity, justice and kindness that will continue to inspire those who follow in her footsteps.
“Personally, I will miss Reeve very much, her warmth and humour – but her light continues to shine through the lives she changed and the values she upheld.”
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