Published Date
As the world continues to navigate the healthcare implications of this global pandemic, I continue to run out of adjectives to describe how proud I am of the individuals who share my chosen profession.
I have always been proud to be a nurse. For decades we, as nurses, have quietly cared for others with compassion, empathy and grace. In dire circumstances, moments of joy and everything in between, we, as nurses, employ a variety of skills to manage the most delicate and difficult situations.
Today, we are faced with an unparalleled challenge. The outbreak of COVID-19 and subsequent global pandemic has put the nursing profession in the spotlight. Nurses across the world are shining and being hailed as heroes, as they should be. Regardless of your area of practice, nurses everywhere are stepping up by continuing to deliver quality and dignified care in ever-changing environments.
Prior to the pandemic, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared 2020 the Year of the Nurse and it’s proven to be just that.
As a healthcare system we continue to work our way through COVID-19 while formally celebrating the profession with Nursing Week (May 11-17). This year’s theme for Nursing Week is Nurses: A Voice to Lead — Nursing the World to Health. Developed by the International Council of Nurses (ICN), the theme showcases how nurses are central to addressing a wide range of health challenges.
And that is exactly what we have seen at Ontario Shores during this pandemic.
Your extraordinary efforts in historic circumstances is evident every day. You are keeping our patients and staff safe with the expertise and dedication you bring to your craft. Along with #RisingUp each day to care for others, you are also making sacrifices. Balancing your work at Ontario Shores with family responsibilities while under tremendous stress is no easy task. I want to personally thank each of you for giving so much of yourself in order to help others.
As you move through your week fulfilling your duties as always, I hope you can take a moment and reflect on your career as well as your contributions during this pandemic. Your dedication has protected the most vulnerable, your compassion has comforted a loved one and your commitment to excellence has saved lives.
While COVID-19 has been challenging, we, nurses, will look back at this time with great pride. When tragedy struck the world, nurses were there continuing to do the things that make it such an honourable and rewarding profession.
You have inspired our patients, their families and our community.
Thank you and Happy Nursing Week!
