Over the past year, we’ve seen so many frontline healthcare workers selflessly answer the call as the COVID-19 pandemic took over our hospitals, long-term care homes, schools and workplaces.
Of those courageous and professional frontline healthcare workers, nurses, personal support workers and lots of others are an integral part of the equation. Whether that’s helping us during a hospital stay, caring for our family and friends in long-term care homes or working at mass immunization clinics, nurses have been the backbone in the fight against COVID-19.
“On behalf of Regional Council, I want express my sincere appreciation for all who work in long-term care homes, or serve our community by being a nurse,” said Regional Chair, Jim Bradley. “The week of May 10 marks both National Nursing Week and Long-Term Care Week, and I am honoured to recognize and thank the dedicated nurses, long-term care staff and frontline workers who provide quality care for some of Niagara’s most vulnerable residents. COVID-19 has required our staff to go above and beyond to provide the very best care possible, and our talented employees make a real difference.”
The theme this year is #WeAnswerTheCall and was developed by the Canadian Nurses Association to showcase the many roles that nurses play in a patient’s health-care journey. The pandemic brought to light the courage and commitment that nurses work under every day and showed the important role that nurses play in the community.
So this year, as we celebrate National Nursing Week, think about that special nurse in your life, whether it’s a family member, friend or colleague, and thank them. Odds are you can say #IKnowANurse who has made an impact on your life.
Quotes
“I would like to directly thank all of our nurses and long-term care staff as we celebrate National Nursing Week and Long-term Care Week across our 8 Regional long-term care homes this May. You certainly answer the call everyday in our long-term care homes, showing compassion and kindness to residents and supporting families and caregivers during these challenging times. Thank you for all you do.” ~ Adrienne Jugley, Commissioner, Community Services
“Throughout this pandemic, our Public Health & Emergency Services teams have answered the call to protect our community from this pandemic, and nurses have been an integral part of that. Whether it has been taking on new roles to combat COVID-19, absorbing the extra burden of supporting residents whose other health issues have worsened, or taking on more leadership opportunities, they have invariably shown the compassion and care of clients that defines nursing. Thank you to all of them for their service to our community.” ~ Dr. Mustafa Hirji, Acting Medical Officer of Health, Niagara Region Public Health
“On behalf of all senior leadership at the Region, I would like to express our gratitude and thanks to all nurses and long-term care staff for how you all have responded during the COVID-19 pandemic. During this celebratory week, we just want to recognize the contributions that you’ve made in our communities, whether it be at a Community Services office, long-term care home, or public health facility. We appreciate you.” ~ Ron Tripp, Acting CAO