Letter to the Editor: Be sure to take special look at job of nurses next week

Think of a nurse, and what you think of will depend on your experience. 

It may include stethoscopes, vaccinations, blood pressure cuffs and band-aids. Being a nurse – a truly exceptional nurse – is so much more as illustrated by the following from a family member whose critically ill father was cared for by a Blessing Health System nurse:

“My mom was devastated at the thought of losing her husband of 66½ years. Michelle’s compassion and care went far beyond what was expected of her. She didn’t just care for us professionally. She took the time to learn about their story, listening deeply to my mom as she shared their life together. 

“Her kindness wasn’t just in her actions but in her words, hugs and how she wrapped her arms around us and held our hands. She was a true source of comfort during a heartbreaking time. I honestly don’t think we could have made it through this experience without her. She was a true blessing from God, sent to guide us through the darkest of times. We are forever grateful for the privilege of meeting Michelle, and she will always be in our hearts.”

This region, its residents, and our health system are blessed to have Michelle and hundreds of nurses just like her at the bedside and in examination, operating and procedure rooms. Using their critical thinking skills and boundless empathy, they support patients and their loved ones in the best and the worst of times. 

During National Nurses Week, celebrated May 3-9 at Blessing, please take a moment to recognize and appreciate the hard-earned skills and deep-seated compassion of the nurses serving patients and families at Blessing and across our region. They are devoted to their duty and selfless in their service. Each of us and the communities we live in are better because of them. 

Tim Tranor
Chief Nursing Officer, Blessing Health System
Quincy, Illinois