Health Caregivers Recognition in May

The Month of May has a quite few month-long observations that fit quite well into the theme of our blog, Promoting Wellness. There are proclamations covering everything from specific health conditions such as Arthritis, Lupus and Osteoporosis to wellness lifestyle choices such as Clean Air, Healthy Vision, Physical Fitness And Sports, Better Sleep and even Motorcycle Safety.

We start adding in the various week long observations and then specific days, you can go crazy trying to keep up. (Did I mention that May is also Mental Health Month?) Given the recent high level of attention to healthcare, there are two particular "causes" I really want to give some extra attention. These are two groups of caregivers.

Starting today, May 6, it is National Nurses Week. Their theme this year is "Nurses: Building a Healthy America." This observation runs through May 12th, the birthday of Florence Nightingale. As you may know, she is recognized as the founder of what we would consider modern nursing. This is a perfect time to show nurses true appreciation for their contributions to patients and your communities.

A good starting point for learning more about how they contribute, and how you can become involved with the profession, is the American Nurses Association website


National EMS, or Emergency Medical Services, Week runs May 17th to 23rd. This week recognizes the dedication of first responders servicing as emergency medicine's "front line." Along with your local communities and medical personnel, take a moment to express thanks and gratitude to these individuals that face lifesaving situations daily.

The American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) is a good place to learn find links to additional information about this profession.

If you would like to find more information about special recognition days, weeks, or months devoted to promoting particular health concerns, visit the National Health Information Center. While there are a large number of resources available on the web (just do a search using your favorite site) this one is from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Links in this post:
American Nurses Association website
American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP)
National Health Information Center