Christian Nurse Honored for Saving Newborn in Pakistan Hospital Fire

A Christian nurse who risked her life to rescue a newborn during a devastating hospital fire in Pakistan’s capital has been praised for her courage and commitment to saving life.

Razia Noreen, a nurse at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad, rescued the only surviving infant from a neonatal nursery when fire engulfed the unit on August 26. The blaze killed 14 of the 15 newborns being cared for there.

PIMS, one of Pakistan’s major public hospitals, is located in Islamabad, the country’s capital and a major administrative center in South Asia. The fire broke out in the third-floor Mother and Child Health ward, where the newborns were receiving intensive care.

Amid thick smoke and rapidly spreading flames, Noreen entered the burning nursery and carried the infant to safety. She later handed the baby to the child’s mother.

Reports said Noreen was subsequently recognized by Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif for her bravery and devotion to duty. The government recognized her bravery and devotion to duty with a national award and a cash prize.

Noreen said she regarded the babies under her care as her own children. Her daily responsibilities included feeding them, changing their diapers and administering medicines. Her familiarity and affection for the infants prompted her to act immediately when the fire broke out.

The nurse’s courage has also drawn appreciation from Pakistan’s Christian community.

Fr. Qaisar Feroze, OFM Cap, praised Noreen’s action as an expression of Christian service and compassion.

“By saving the life of a child from the killer fire at PIMS hospital, Razia Noreen has witnessed her strong Christian faith,” Fr. Feroze said. “She has demonstrated the values of the Good Samaritan who saves and restores life.”

He also welcomed the government’s recognition of her courage, describing it as a moment of pride for Christians in Pakistan.

Fr. Feroze said Noreen’s response reflects the Christian call to protect life and serve others without hesitation, particularly those who are vulnerable and in danger.

For Pakistan’s Christian community, Noreen’s action has emerged from the tragedy as a powerful example of faith expressed through service. Her courage reflects the Gospel image of the Good Samaritan, responding to human suffering not with words alone, but with immediate and selfless action.

As families mourn the 14 newborns who died, Noreen’s rescue of one child stands as a reminder of the value of every human life and the responsibility to protect the most vulnerable.