4 | CFHN centralfloridahealthnews.com PUBLISHER Nelson Kirkland MANAGING EDITOR Jessica McDonald DIGITAL DIRECTOR Tyler DiGiovine CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Erika Aldrich, Dr. Alison Young-Tan, Jennifer Goodson, LMHC, Ryan Milejczak, Julie Gmitter CONTRIBUTING COLUMNISTS Ritu Aparajita, MD, Ryan Peardon, O.D. CONTRIBUTING ARTIST Dawn Lewandowski DELIVERY DLS Distribution Published by Central Florida Media Group in cooperation with the Polk County Medical Association Copyright © 2026 Central Florida Media Group. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. This issue of Central Florida Health News is a trademark of Central Florida Media Group. Reproduction or use in whole or in part of the contents of this magazine without written permis- sion is prohibited. Central Florida Health News makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of content published. In the event of an error found herein however, neither the publishers or advertisers will be held responsible, nor do the publishers accept any liability for the accuracy of statements made by advertisers in advertising and promotional materials. Furthermore, the opinions and claims expressed in advertisements and promotional materials do not necessarily reflect those of the Polk County Medical Association or Central Florida Media Group and do not imply an endorsement. 56 Fourth Street Northwest, Suite 100 Winter Haven, Florida PHONE 863.248.7537 PUBLISHER’S NOTE www.CentralFloridaHealthNews.com PUBLISHER’S NOTE A Calling, Not a Career NELSON KIRKLAND, PUBLISHER [email protected] READ THE DIGITAL EDITION! Want to access this edition on the go? Check out our newly updated digital flipbook at http://centralfloridahealthnews. com/magazines or scan the QR code at left. E very year, our Tribute to Nurses edition stands as one of our most meaningful issues. As I’ve mentioned over the years in this column space, my late mother spent her life in service as a nurse, first with the Polk County Health Department and later within the Polk County Schools. Growing up in the shadow of her career, I didn’t just see a job; I witnessed a calling. Nurses are the quiet engine of our medical community. They are the unshakeable presence in critical moments and the soothing voice when fear threatens to take hold. Whether serving in a busy clinic or looking after our children in the schools, they carry a unique blend of clinical brilliance and raw empathy. To be a nurse is to choose a life where someone else’s well-being always comes first. They see us at our most vulnerable and treat us with a dignity that heals as much as any medicine can. This issue is a tribute to that tireless spirit—the same spirit I saw in my mother every single day. To all the nurses in Central Florida and beyond: Thank you for your sacrifice, your skill, and your heart. We see the incredible work you do, and we are honored to celebrate you. HN
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