05/10/2026
As we begin National Nurses Week 2026 (May 11–17), I want to acknowledge and thank nurses across Newfoundland & Labrador and throughout Canada for the incredible work they do every single day.
This year’s theme, “The Power of Nurses to Transform Health,” is incredibly fitting.
Nurses are often the backbone of our health care system; advocating for patients, providing compassion during difficult moments, supporting families, and helping hold together a system currently under tremendous strain.
Health care across Newfoundland & Labrador is going through an incredibly difficult period of transition.
There are major pressures throughout the system:
limited access to family physicians,
long ER wait times,
increasing patient demand,
staff shortages,
and many exhausted health care workers trying to hold things together while continuing to provide compassionate care.
Most health care professionals I know truly care deeply about their patients and communities. They are showing up every day despite burnout, fatigue, frustration, and emotional strain because they believe in helping people.
I would simply ask patients and families for patience, understanding, and kindness during this time.
A kind word to a receptionist, nurse, physician, paramedic, clerk, or support worker can matter more than people realize.
This period has also reminded me personally how important physician and health care worker wellness truly is. Many of us spend years caring for others while neglecting our own health, balance, and well-being in the process.
That is something I need to continue improving within my own life as well.
If we want a sustainable health care system, we also need healthier health care workers; physically, mentally, emotionally, and personally.
To all nurses and health care workers: thank you for continuing to show up, care for others, and make a difference during some very challenging times.
