National Nurses Week is a time to stop and thank you for the extraordinary dedication, courage, and sacrifices you have made to support the health of our communities throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Your calling to serve, protect, and care has never been more important than during this unprecedented time in our nation’s history.
No one could have imagined just how fitting it would be when the World Health Organization designated 2020 the International Year of the Nurse. Now extended through 2021, the original intent was to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the birth of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing, and our namesake. Just as she fought for the health and safety of the victims of the Crimean war, in this past year, you have fought a war against COVID-19.
Nurses have been on the frontlines of the pandemic response – going beyond the call of duty in countless ways. You have entered buildings not knowing what to expect, you have risen to the challenges of supply shortages, held the hands of dying patients who would have otherwise been alone, been the voice offering connection to distant, concerned families, and you have nursed sick patients back to health
Nurses have also been instrumental in fighting COVID-19 in communities through work in healthcare clinics, community centers, and “drive-by” programs. Fashioned in full clad PPE armor, nurses have been there to offer the tests and vaccines – and information and caring – that has been so critical to protecting health and restoring our sense of normalcy.
That nursing has been voted the most honest and ethical profession for 18 years in a row, is a testament to the general public’s trust. Whether working in hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, or other settings, the work you have done – and continue to do – is noble, self-sacrificing, and heroic.
On behalf of all of us at Gale Healthcare, thank you for your service!
