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

A nurse who saved a toddler from severe burns 58 years ago has retired. Wynola Wayne received a heartfelt send-off, including a standing ovation from colleagues. The child she saved, Marco Houpe, was there to escort her out of the building. In 1965, a Christmas tree fire left 15-month-old Marco Houpe with third-degree burns over 85% of his body. He was rushed to Nationwide Children’s Hospital, where a young nurse named Wynola Wayne took charge of his care. Despite the extent of his injuries, she remained certain he would survive.

Houpe’s parents later said Wayne had saved his life. Her dedication left a lasting impression on the family. Years later, Wayne even named her own son after Marco Houpe.

Decades on, Houpe now leads a full life. He is married with two children and works as a school administrator and coach. He still considers Wayne his guardian angel. At her retirement, he returned the favour by walking her out of the hospital for the last time. Wynola Wayne’s career as a nurse spanned 58 years. Her colleagues honoured her with a five-minute standing ovation. The bond between her and Marco Houpe endures as a testament to her impact.