The American Mission Hospital (AMH) was supported by numerous employees - from Bahrainis to individuals from the broader Arabian Peninsula and the Middle East.

One notable figure was Abdulnabi Sabkar, a young Bahraini man who dedicated many years of service to the hospital.

In the 1940s and 1950s, he frequently accompanied doctors to Saudi Arabia, assisting in surgeries, dispensing medicines, and taking on various other vital roles.

Trained to provide medicines and care for patients, Mr Sabkar became renowned for his exemplary performance in these duties.

Another Bahraini contributor, Yousif Qassim, worked as an assistant in the hospital’s pharmacy stores during the 1940s.

Fatima Zayani, a young mother who tragically lost a child, began her career at AMH, Bahrain. With the support of both the hospital and the government, she pursued further education in nursing in Baghdad, accompanied by her sister Aisha. Fatima later earned the title of ‘the first Bahraini nurse’ and became a trailblazer in Bahrain’s medical field.

She founded the Al-Zayani Pharmacy, opened a private clinic, and became the first Bahraini woman to hold a driver’s licence in 1947.

In 1959, Ms Zayani was appointed director of outpatient clinics at Salmaniya Hospital and later became chief nurse assistant in 1963. She continued her service until her retirement in 1971 due to health issues. Fatima passed away in 1982, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and pioneering achievements.

Mu’allam Nasif, a man of diverse talents, was a pivotal figure at the hospital in the 1960s. Known for his vast knowledge, he worked across departments, including the pharmacy and medical records.

He described his journey in 1955: “I am a Christian, born in Mosul, Iraq. I was called by God to join the mission in Basrah city on June 12, 1912, in the time of Dr Cantine and Dr Van Ess. I was very young then. They wanted an Arabic teacher for the newcomers from America. During the next year, I was transferred to Bahrain to continue the same task for 20 years.”

When the school associated with the hospital temporarily closed, Mu’allam Nasif transitioned to working in the men’s hospital, according to Arabia Calling, No. 241, Autumn 1955 edition.

Another dedicated Arab employee, Ahmed Bu Zaid, joined the hospital as a young boy in 1948 and served for nearly 60 years. Even after his retirement, he maintained close ties with the institution until his passing in 2014. Mr Bu Zaid received training in laboratory work and earned immense respect for his diligence and punctuality. Colleagues often remarked on his reliability, saying his habits were so consistent that one could set their clocks by his schedule.

These individuals represent the heart and soul of AMH, showcasing how the contributions of local talent shaped its legacy in Bahrain and beyond.

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