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National Nurses Appreciation Week: Nurses Make a Difference

Nurses Appreciation Week, founded in 1954 by the American Nurses Association, is a week-long celebration that honors nurses’ essential role in patient care. This year’s theme is “Nurses Make a Difference,” and Mesothelioma Hub aims to do so by providing five ways you can thank a nurse who has impacted your life. We want to take this opportunity to thank all the nurses who have positively impacted the lives of those affected by lung cancer and mesothelioma. Your hard work, expertise, and empathy are truly appreciated.

As cancer care specialists, oncology nurses are equipped with intimate knowledge of cancer’s effects on the body. They remain dedicated to the well-being of their patients, providing comfort and care throughout diagnoses and treatments. Often, they are the first and last faces a patient sees when they visit the doctor or attend treatment. But that doesn’t mean they’re unaffected by the physical and mental rigors of what many have described as a “calling.” Despite the challenges they face, from intense workloads to staffing shortages, oncology nurses keep pushing forward with unwavering compassion and dedication.

5 Ways to Show Your Appreciation for Nurses Appreciation Week

It’s time to recognize the fundamental hard work that those in the nursing field put in daily. Long shifts, aching joints, and painful moments with patients don’t keep the oncology nurses below from loving what they do. Don’t let National Nurses Week pass you by this year without thanking a nurse specialist! Keep reading if you need a few ideas for celebrating nurses in your life.

1) Personalized Thank You Note

Saying “Thank You” may seem like a simple thing, but it can go a long way! Nurses give their all to their career and their patients. Hearing “thank you” for the million things they do that may go unnoticed is rewarding for healthcare professionals. You can also show your appreciation with a “thank you” note or gift card to their favorite coffee spot. Write a heartfelt message thanking your nurse for their care and support. Be specific and express how their care has made a difference in your life.

2) Offer Help:

If you have a nurse in your life who has been there for you during your battle with lung cancer or mesothelioma, offering a helping hand can make a big difference. Nurses are working harder than ever and they may appreciate some extra support. You can offer to pick up groceries or prescriptions, help with yard work, or even just listen when they need to vent. Any gesture, big or small, can show your appreciation for their hard work and dedication.

3) Order a Special Meal:

Nurses work long hours and don’t always have time to eat. Ordering a meal for your caregiver nurse or bringing in some healthy snacks will go a long way in showing your appreciation. Oftentimes, the fastest way to a healthcare worker’s heart is through their stomach. And, as we’ve mentioned before, most don’t have time during a shift to grab a real meal and may end up pondering unhealthy choices in front of the hospital vending machine. Show your love for nurses by ordering food for delivery – bagels, cookies, sandwiches, anything! Every meal a nurse doesn’t have to worry about is time they spend caring for our loved ones.

4) Arrange a Drive-by Parade:

Drive-by parades can be an exciting way to show gratitude toward the nurses who have been caring for patients with lung cancer and mesothelioma. With social distancing in place, you can organize a community event that is fun and safe. Combine healthcare themes with classic parade decorations to make it a memorable celebration. It’s a great way to appreciate nurses’ hard work at their medical facility and dedication during Nurses Appreciation Week.

5) Donate to Nursing Organizations:

You can always thank nurses by investing in the future of the career field. Buying merchandise from the National Student Nurses’ Association helps fund the organization and provides opportunities for student nurses. Donating to the American Nurses Association funds innovation for the future of nursing.

Looking Towards Nurse Appreciation Week 2024

As Nurses Appreciation Week comes to a close, let’s remember that it’s not just a week or a day to celebrate the hardworking and compassionate nurses who significantly impact our lives. They deserve recognition every day of the year. Whether you’re a patient or just a member of the community, there are many ways to show appreciation for nurses. Every effort counts, from saying “thank you” to organizing a drive-by parade.

So, let’s continue to celebrate and appreciate nurses for the outstanding care they provide to us and our loved ones. Take the time to thank a nurse today and every day. Don’t wait until the next Nurses Appreciation Week to show your gratitude. Make a pledge to support nurses in your community and continue spreading awareness about their valuable role in our society.

Join our patient advocates in celebrating and thanking the dedicated nurses who have made a positive impact in your life. Share this article with your friends and family, and let’s make every day Nurses Appreciation Day.

Last updated on July 25th, 2023 at 01:52 pm

Mesothelioma Support Team

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