Today is May 12, Nurses’ Day all over the world, celebrated on the 200th anniversary of the birth of Florence Nightingale this year. The World Health Organization (WHO) designated 2020 as the International Year of the Nurse, “in recognition of the contributions they make, and the risks associated with nursing shortages.” The day is meant to highlight the importance of nurses in the healthcare continuum and thank nurses for what they do. The theme this year is “Nursing the World to Health.” From the WHO: “Historically, as well as today, nurses are at the forefront of fighting epidemics and pandemics - providing high quality and respectful treatment and care. They are often the first and sometimes the only health professional that people see and the quality of their initial assessment, care and treatment is vital. Nurses account for more than half of all the world’s health workers, yet there is an urgent shortage of nurses worldwide with 5.9 million more nurses still needed, especially in low- and middle-income countries.”

As a retired registered nurse, I dealt with many public health issues throughout my career. As I stay home and stay safe during this pandemic, I honor those nurses working today. Front line health workers are special people who stretch forward to care for us even when an unknown pandemic hits. We must believe that a tomorrow will arrive that brings a treatment, vaccine or cure for Covid-19. Until then, know that nurses like the ones I have been proud to work with and train are on the frontline. They are making assessments, providing medications, oxygen, nourishment, and treatments to their patients. They hold hands and provide loving comfort when family is not allowed in. If you know a nurse, take a moment to write them an email, letter, or text today, to let them know you are with them, that you see them stretching forward every day.