Nurses Day Reflections: Honoring a Lifelong Calling
A Brief History of Nurses Day
Nurses Day is celebrated every year on May 6th, kicking off National Nurses Week, which ends on May 12th—Florence Nightingale’s birthday. She’s often considered the founder of modern nursing, and it’s no coincidence the week honors her legacy. The idea of setting aside a special day for nurses dates back to 1953, but it wasn’t officially recognized in the U.S. until 1974, when President Nixon issued a proclamation. Since then, it’s become a time to show appreciation for the heart, skill, and dedication nurses bring to every shift—past and present.
On a Personal Note
Here’s a throwback photo of me in my nursing cap—what a time that was! I started nursing school at the “old” age of 34, right after Carrie started first grade. I’d wanted to be a nurse for a long time, and eventually realized there was never going to be a perfect time to start. So I just went for it. One of the first steps was retaking the ACT. I still laugh thinking about showing up to take the test and the other students—all high schoolers—thought I was the teacher! It was a humbling and exciting chapter, and one of the best decisions I ever made.
My nursing career began with a two-year associate degree. My first job was on a med-surg floor—great experience and a solid foundation. But it didn’t take long for me to realize where my heart was. After my first “code blue,” I knew I wanted to be in the critical care unit. I moved into the surgical intensive care unit and stayed there for several years, earning my critical care certification and later my BSN—all while working full time. It was challenging, but incredibly rewarding. There’s something about the teamwork, the intensity, and the trust patients place in you that stays with you forever.
A few years into my career, I stepped away from bedside nursing and moved into management. But I wasn’t done learning yet! I headed back to school once again—this time for my nurse practitioner license. I was still working full time, and yes, it can be done—but let me tell you, having the support of your family makes all the difference. After earning my graduate degree, I found my place working alongside cardiothoracic surgeons in the hospital. It was a demanding but fulfilling role, and I was proud to bring all those years of bedside experience into advanced practice.
The Final Chapter in My Nursing Journey
I wrapped up my last few years in nursing by stepping away from the hospital setting and working with a great group of nephrologists. I made rounds on ambulatory dialysis patients—a slower pace, but just as meaningful. It was a wonderful way to finish out my career, connecting with patients on a more regular, personal level. Eventually, I retired from nursing and turned my focus full-time to Trendy Tree. And well, you know the rest of that story! Oh, and Carrie became a nurse too! It’s amazing how many Trendy Tree customers have turned out to be nurses! It seems nurses flock together wherever we are))))
Nursing will always be a part of who I am, and I’m so thankful for the path it gave me. Twenty-five years filled with challenges, growth, long-lasting friendships, and some truly incredible people along the way.
A Simple Thank You Goes a Long Way
My goal in sharing this on Nurses Day isn’t to dwell on the past. Nor to go on about all the wonderful experiences I had in my career—though I’m grateful for every one of them.
Really, it’s just a little reminder. If you have a nurse in your life—whether it’s a family member, a friend, or someone you see in scrubs—take a moment to give them a hug or say thank you.
Nurses show up every day, often under pressure and with little recognition.
Sometimes, only another nurse truly understands what that job takes.
But a kind word from someone who notices? That can mean the world.
