Amata Thanks American Samoa’s Nurses in Celebration of National Nurses Day & Week

Washington, D.C. - Congresswoman Uifa'atali Amata is sending appreciation to American Samoa's nurses in celebration of National Nurses Week (May 6-12), which begins with National Nurses Day (May 6) in the U.S., followed by National School Nurse Day, National Student Nurses Day (May 8), and the week is bookended by International Nurses Day (May 12).

A file photo with Helesa Fa'ate'a who at the time of this photo was an OR surgical nurse at Landstuhl

"A special thank you to each of our wonderful nurses, especially in our islands where you are so needed. You are there for all of us right when we need you most, and you are known for carrying on with care, kindness, cheerful spirits, and excellence even in often stressful circumstances," said Congresswoman Amata. "Each of you has a heart dedicated to healing others that led you to this profession of public service, and I know God sees your good deeds. You are appreciated and loved, and we all notice your commitment. God bless our nurses!"

The National Nurses Day theme shines a light on "The Power of Nurses" in celebration of 5 million U.S. nurses, while International Nurses Day theme is "Our Nurses. Our Future. Empowered Nurses Save Lives." These themes emphasize the influence of nurses, and focus on leadership, workplaces and policy improvements to reduce strain and see the best possible outcomes.

The American Nurses Association (ANA) designated May 6 to celebrate the vital contributions of nurses and kick off the week. The day was proposed in 1953 by Dorothy Sunderland, who worked in the U.S. Department of Health, Education, and Welfare, and 20 years later it was officially proclaimed. Before that breakthrough, it was celebrated by nurses in 1954 to commemorate the 100-year anniversary of Florence Nightingale's care in the Crimean War, as she is the founder of modern nursing. The International Council of Nurses chose May 12, since it is Florence Nightingale's birthday. An oil lamp is an emblem of Nurses Day to recall her service making rounds in the night carrying an oil lamp.

###