Exceptional Care That Transforms.

Memorial nurses make a difference

four nurses in blue scrubs standing in hospital hallway with crossed arms in a power pose

“To do what nobody else will do, a way that nobody else can do, in spite of all we go through; that is to be a nurse.” – Rawsi Williams


May signifies National Nurses Month, with National Nurses Week beginning each year on May 6 and ending May 12, Florence Nightingale’s birthday.

Each year, the American Nurses Association (ANA) selects a theme to represent the profession. From ANA: Nurses Make a Difference honors the varying roles of nurses and their positive impact on our lives. Nurses make a difference as trusted advocates who ensure individuals, families, and populations receive quality patient care and services. Nurses make a difference by influencing and shaping health policy decisions that ensure all Americans have access to high-quality, affordable health care coverage.

The impact nurses have on Memorial Health System cannot be overstated. This month and always, we celebrate our dedicated nurses who embody our mission of healing, inspiring, and transforming the health of our community. Members of our nursing leadership team shared their appreciation for our nurses below.

The importance of nurses

Memorial Health System Senior Vice President of Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer Jennifer Dumal says, “One of the most important roles of nurses is that of patient advocate. Nurses spend more time with patients than any other discipline – without nurses, we would not be able to reach as many lives as we do in our community.”

“Nurses provide the necessary care for healing and show tender compassion every day as they work tirelessly to inspire patients, families, and their colleagues,” says Memorial Health System Vice President of Patient Care/Quality/Satisfaction/Safety Kathy Ladner. She continues, “They are essential to our mission!”

Describing a nurse

  • Compassionate
  • Caring
  • Skillful
  • Knowledgeable
  • Adaptable
  • Resilient
  • Flexible
  • Dedicated
  • Patient advocate

The impact of COVID-19

COVID-19 has changed the healthcare landscape for every discipline, most especially nursing. Many have chosen to continue supporting our community more than two years into the COVID-19 pandemic, providing invaluable service to our patients.

“I think it’s safe to say that no one was prepared for the magnitude of the COVID-19 pandemic. The uncertainties, the sadness, and the terrifying news day after day forced many nurses out of the medical field. For over 2 years now, you have chosen to continue your nursing journey. The bravery, leadership and commitment you have demonstrated are beyond admirable. Your passion and promise to serve our community has pulled us through some very dark times,” says Memorial Health System Clinical Director Physicians Clinic Kristian Spear. She continues, “You are appreciated. You are respected. You are trusted. From the bottom of my heart, I thank you for continuing to fight this battle with us. You were made for this.”

Kathy Ladner shares, “I hope you know how truly thankful we are for every nurse who worked tirelessly and selflessly over the last 2+ years to help us weather this journey. Your resilience, support, determination, persistence, and strength are inspiring and appreciated more than you will ever realize.”

Thank you, nurses

“Thank you for the valuable role you play as a member of our nursing team. Your dedication and efforts make a vital difference in the lives of the people we serve,” says Jennifer Dumal.   

Kathy Ladner adds, “It takes the entire team to meet the needs of our community and support our mission. Nurses are critical to great outcomes and are a very special part of that team!”

Your hard work is noticed, and your service is appreciated, nurses.


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