| Photo by Rusty Wilson on Unsplash
Every year, from May 6th to 12th, the nation celebrates National Nurses Week. This year’s theme, “Nurses Make the Difference,” rings especially true as we recognize nurses’ unwavering dedication and commitment worldwide. But the story of National Nurses Week goes deeper than a single week of appreciation. It’s a historical narrative of service, sacrifice, and nurses’ vital role in our healthcare system.
National Nurses Week finds its roots in the life and work of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing. In 1974, President Richard Nixon proclaimed a week in May to be dedicated to nurses. Nearly two decades later, the American Nurses Association (ANA) solidified the specific dates of May 6th to 12th, aligning them with National Nurses Day (May 6th) and Florence Nightingale’s birthday (May 12th). This week serves not only to honor nurses but also to raise awareness of the critical role they play in patient care and healthcare advocacy.
Nurses work in a wide range of specialties and settings. From assisting with life-threatening ER crises to delivering babies and caring for older people in their last moments, nurses perform some of the most challenging and heartbreaking tasks in the medical world. As workers who perform the most essential healthcare tasks, nurses serve as the first point of contact for most patients.
The story of National Nurses Week cannot be fully understood without acknowledging the significant contributions of Filipino nurses. Their presence in the American healthcare system dates back to the 1960s, and their numbers have steadily grown. Filipino nurses are known for their exceptional work ethic, compassion, and cultural sensitivity. They have played a vital role in addressing healthcare shortages in the United States.
They represent a significant portion of the nursing workforce in the US. A 2020 survey by the American Nurses Association found that 19.6% of registered nurses identified as Asian, a large portion of whom are Filipino. Their presence helps bridge the gap in healthcare staffing, particularly in underserved communities.
However, their journey hasn’t been without hardship. In 1966, Filipina nurse Leonora Aurelia “Lee” Amuerao faced tragedy when several of her fellow Filipino nurses were brutally murdered in Chicago. She survived the ordeal and continued her nursing career despite this immense personal loss, strengthening and supporting the Filipino nursing community.
This horrific event highlighted the vulnerabilities faced by Filipino nurses working abroad, sparking the formation of the Philippine Nurses Association of America (PNAA). The PNAA served as a support network and a powerful voice advocating for the rights and safety of Filipino nurses.
The COVID-19 pandemic placed extraordinary stress on healthcare systems worldwide. Filipino nurses, known for their compassion and resilience, stood on the front lines. Sadly, many didn’t survive this invisible enemy. According to the PNAA, over 180 Filipino nurses in the US alone lost their lives to COVID-19. Their deaths serve as a stark reminder of the immense sacrifice nurses make for patient care.
The PNAA was crucial in supporting Filipino nurses and providing mental health resources, financial assistance, and PPE. The organization also played a vital role in advocating for policy changes to protect vulnerable nurses, especially during the pandemic.
National Nurses Week is a powerful reminder that nurses are not simply healthcare providers but humanitarians, advocates, and pillars of our communities. By acknowledging their challenges and celebrating their achievements, we can foster a healthcare system that values their expertise and empowers them to continue making a difference.
The dedication of Filipino nurses extends far beyond a single week. Their profound impact on healthcare systems worldwide deserves ongoing appreciation and support. As we celebrate “Nurses Make the Difference” in 2024, Filipino nurses stand out as a shining example of unwavering commitment, cultural sensitivity, and a global reach that makes a difference.
They bring a unique blend of cultural competency and empathy to their practice. Their understanding of diverse backgrounds fosters stronger patient relationships and culturally sensitive care.
And their influence extends far beyond the US. They provide critical care in countries across the globe, particularly in developing regions with limited healthcare resources. Their dedication to serving others embodies the true spirit of the nursing profession.
As we celebrate National Nurses Week 2024, let us remember the sacrifices and contributions of all nurses, especially Filipino nurses. Their legacy of service, resilience, and unwavering dedication inspires us all. We must continue to advocate for their well-being and ensure they are adequately supported in their demanding roles. It includes fair compensation, safe working environments, and access to mental health resources.
“Nurses Make the Difference,” is not merely a slogan; it’s a fact we must continue to celebrate and champion. They are unsung healthcare heroes, and their contributions deserve our deepest gratitude and unwavering support.
