By Amanda Waddell, American Red Cross
Now, more than ever, the world is saying THANK YOU to nurses and medical professionals all over the world.
Now, more than ever, we recognize their sacrifices and dedication to keeping the world safe and cared for.
And now, more than ever, on this World Health Day, we take a moment to recognize the importance and origins of the Red Cross.
Every year, the World Health Organization uses this special day to highlight a specific area of concern, to draw attention to a specific theme or prioritize an area of concern. Since the inception in 1948, the organization has identified a vast range of themes, from mental health, diabetes, environmental health, and many, many more – over 70 years of important topics and goals.
This year, on April 7th, 2020, the WHO marks this precious day by calling attention to the extraordinary role that nurses and midwives play in the global field of healthcare. And as we are all seeing the critical care that nurses are providing during the current COVID-19 pandemic, it is especially poignant.
The Red Cross champions this particular day, as we are wholly invested in the health and safety of the world. But, did you know that this amazing organization, that is recognized around the globe, was founded by a nurse?
Clara Barton was an American nurse who risked her life, as many nurses do, to save the lives of others. During the Civil War she selflessly gave supplies and care to soldiers on the battlefield and beyond. Barton went on to found the Red Cross, and headed her team of dedicated volunteers for 23 years. Thus, began a true revolution of health – the mission of the Red Cross – “to prevent and alleviate human suffering wherever it may be found….to protect life and health and to ensure respect for the human being.”.
In this International Year of the Nurse, deemed so by the World Health Organization, leaders and partners all over the world will create conversations and recommendations to strengthen the workforce of the nursing and midwifery workforce. And this is important. But what can you do to recognize this day, and recognize the nurses in your community?
Donate blood or plasma. Say thank you to a nurse in your life or send notes of encouragement to the nursing staff at your local hospital. Use social media to tell a story about how a nurse impacted your life. Ask a nurse or midwife what charity matters to them and donate in their name. There are countless ways to recognize these superheroes!