It is ironic that during Oncology Nursing Month this year, we are also experiencing the most impactful health crisis of our lifetime. And still you show up every day with pride, heart and love for our patients and for the career you’ve chosen. You should all walk proudly because you were chosen for this life. You are the unique among us. You give love, support, kindness, heart, knowledge, protection, and you always are looking out for everyone within your reach, including each other.
To our inpatient nurses:
You give weddings to those who are leaving their short life too soon. You work double and varied shifts to be there for the patients and families who trust you when times get close at the end. You encourage those who are newly diagnosed and scared to death. You teach families that you will always be there when and if the time comes. You care for the most complex and vulnerable surgical patients who have scars that go far beyond those of the exterior wounds for which you are asked to care. You act as therapists, teachers, bodyguards and whatever else you see that your patients, providers and colleagues need. You care for each other and bond like no other teams because you are an oncology nurse.
To our outpatient nurses:
You care for our patients’ disease and their well-being. You calm their fear, and you sit by their side as they take their first dose of chemo. You teach them about the radiation treatment that their doctor has prescribed. You meet them when they are first diagnosed and the most vulnerable. You calm them by giving them a name and face to help them through their journey. You support the many providers who care for the patients through the beautiful relationships you’ve developed. You work behind the scenes to ensure that all boxes are checked, all orders are placed. All needs matter, even ensuring patients have a ride home and a safe place to go back to.
To all of our oncology nurses, regardless of your location in our vastly expanding Oncology ICCE, we thank you. We see you. We honor you. We appreciate you. And most of all we are so proud of every single one of you. Happy Oncology Nursing Month Team!
With much appreciation,
Oncology ICCE Leadership
