The dedication of America’s 3.1 million registered nurses to save lives and to maintain the health of millions of individuals is the focus of this year’s National Nurses Week, celebrated annually May 6-12 throughout the United States.  And the Nursing Staff at St. Luke’s Hospital has joined the celebration!

Each day during National Nurses Week is marked with small but special events to recognize “Nursing Through the Ages.” At St. Luke’s Hospital, there is a photo collage and display; special duffle bags/back packs distributed; an afternoon of free massages and several chances to win door prizes. The recognition gifts, door prizes and massages were generously contributed by members of the Medical Staff, several area businesses and massage therapy students at Isothermal Community College.

While St. Luke’s is also celebrating the annual Benefits Fair, all staff and physicians are invited to a Wednesday afternoon cookout in the courtyard.

Annually, National Nurses’ Week begins on May 6, marked as RN Recognition Day, and ends on May 12, the birthday of Florence Nightingale, founder of nursing as a modern profession.