Thank you to our nurses
Story 8

Jacalyn Liebowitz: Hi. I'm Jacalyn Liebowitz. It's my privilege to serve as Adventist Health’s Chief Nursing Officer. I am proud to say I've been a registered nurse for more than 30 years now. This year's Nurses Week theme is We Give Hope, and nothing could be more true of every Adventist Health nurse. You all are true givers of hope, and have been doing so during this darkest of pandemic times. Through more than a year of uncertainty, you prioritized the health of others before your own health and the health of your loved ones to care for people at their most fragile time. Though you may have sometimes been fearful, you were willing to do whatever was asked of you in the most trying of times.

There were no manuals or textbooks for the challenges we faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Nothing has inspired me more than the incredible ongoing frontline teamwork and innovation exhibited by our Adventist Health nurses. More than 160 years ago, Florence Nightingale earned the nickname The Lady with the Lamp because at night she would a walk among the beds of the war-wounded men while holding a light in her hand. Her mere presence was a comfort to the sick. This past year, your presence has been a source of comfort to your patients. You were their caregivers, their loved ones, and their friends when no one else was able to be at their bedside. Like Florence, you have exhibited extraordinary selflessness and strength. Like her, you have brought light and hope, comfort and support to our patients.

Now with the vaccines, you bring even more hope, a different hope. I want to thank you. The dedication that you continue to exhibit at all levels of our profession makes me proud to be a nurse. As we head towards summer with renewed optimism for healthier, more normal times, I want you to take the time to care for yourself. I encourage you to reconnect with the people and things that bring you joy. Thank you for your continued passion for our patients' health, and thank you for living God's love for our patients, our communities, and each other. Let me wish you happy Nurses Week.