May 08, 2020
Dear Colleagues,
May 11 to 17 marks National Nursing Week, which always falls in conjunction with the anniversary of Florence Nightingale’s birthday (May 12). The Canadian Nurses Association has adopted the International Council of Nurses’ theme for 2020, Nurses: A Voice to Lead - Nursing the World to Health.
This year is special, as the World Health Organization has designated 2020 as the Year of the Nurse and Midwife in honour of the 200th anniversary of Florence Nightingale’s birth. Widely known to be the founder of modern nursing, Florence Nightingale was also a statistician, an epidemiologist and a pioneer of public health.
Clearly, this year is a very challenging one for everyone, including nurses around the world who are directly involved in the response to the COVID-19 pandemic. I am continually humbled and inspired by the nurses I have the privilege to work with at Baycrest, who have demonstrated exceptional care, commitment, passion and leadership in the face of these difficult circumstances. Thank you for everything you do, and know that your work has a profound impact on our patients, residents and their families, as seen in these excerpts from just a few of the recent letters of appreciation we have received:
“Let me also just reiterate how much we appreciate the kind, compassionate and attentive care that the front line staff provide. The charge RPNs are efficient and responsive as well as being all of the above. You have a good team.”
“I wanted to extend my gratitude to the Nurses looking after my mother who are totally dedicated to their craft. The patients and their families are very grateful!”
“I just wanted to express my greatest thanks to the angelic and super heroic nurses…caring for my Mom. Your staff of hardworking, committed, diligent, and brave human beings have eased all our worries and concerns. They have been nothing less than absolutely REMARKABLE! Thank you so much!!!”
Please take a moment this week to thank the nursing colleagues on your teams for the great work they do.
As we recognize and extend thanks to nurses this week, I would also like to acknowledge the many disciplines and services that support client care. It truly takes a team!
As is our practice, we will celebrate and recognize all of our staff during Baycrest’s Interprofessional Collaborative Care: Education & Practice Week (dates to be confirmed).
Thank you,
Margot DaCosta, RN, MN
Executive Director Hospital Services & Pharmacy and Chief Nursing Executive