If you just cracked open this edition of Central Florida Health News, prepare to meet some of the most impressive nurses around! May is National Nurses Month, and we celebrated by asking everyone from Bond Clinic to Watson Clinic and all the hospitals between to send us a handful of nurses who stand out for their dedication and compassion. (Spoiler alert: The organizations delivered!)
Of course, those mentioned in this edition are a mere sampling of the dedicated nurses who fill every corner of Central Florida and beyond. And while we can’t feature everyone, we extend our gratitude to all those nurses who prioritize the health of strangers before themselves. It can be a thankless job, but we see you.
As we talk this month about nurses going above and beyond, I can’t help but think of one nurse who will forever be the epitome of a healthcare hero—my mother.
Though undoubtedly I am a bit biased, I know for a fact that Nurse Kirkland, as she was known throughout Polk County, left a lasting impression on many working-class families through her work as a registered nurse for the Polk County Health Department. Whether she was administering vaccinations for school or caring for AIDS patients when some were afraid to do so, she remained dedicated in her public service.
It was a lifetime spent in admiration of her commitment that helped me to understand the importance of appreciation. Have you thanked your nurse today?
Thank you for reading Central Florida Health News, and God bless.