Great Bay (DCOMM):--- Today marks the beginning of nurses week, an annual celebration of nurses everywhere. It runs from May 6 to May 12 each year. During the week, two days have their own theme: May 8 is National Student Nurses Day and May 12 is International Nurses Day. The celebration of the latter falls on the birthday of Florence Nightingale, who played a critical role in the development of modern nursing. I am honoured to acknowledge nurses week and to celebrate the people who are part of the backbone of our health system. Let us also take a moment to remember those nurses who have passed away, those who are retired, those who may not be feeling well – may they always keep us inspired to care.It is the past, present and future of nursing as a profession that makes me confident about the level of care on St. Maarten. Nursing will continue to play an even greater role in delivering a better, more convenient health care service for St. Maarten. We must always recognize the potential for our nurses to contribute to improvements in the health care of our population.
Our nurses, because of their close relationship with our communities, are taking up the challenge. They are the healthy role models for their own families and our families, the patients and our community. Our nurses are key partners in making St. Maarten ready for the future. We are counting on them to make a difference just as they also count on us for support.
On behalf of the people of St. Maarten and the Government, may I express to all nurses in St. Maarten our most heartfelt gratitude and our utmost respect. Without your sacrifices and your devotion in caring for the sick, we would not have made as much progress as we have and we would not be standing on the threshold of victory over disease.