During the COVID-19 pandemic in this past year, the work of nurses in healthcare has been critical. From providing care to those recovering to preventing COVID-19 to preventing the spread of the virus in the community, nurses have served a pivotal role in the overall health and wellness of the St. Louis region. As the vaccines are beginning to available in the community, where do you turn to in the community? You turn to trusted healthcare provider, a nurse, who you know, one that is readily available, easily accessible, and will answer your questions with knowledge and experience, guiding you to make sound healthcare decisions. That healthcare provider for more than 2,000 people today is a Deaconess Nurse Ministry nurse.Our Deaconess Ministry nurses are called to care for every life, with dignity and respect. They are dedicated, compassionate health care professionals who work tirelessly to provide the care that people need.During the pandemic, three Deaconess nurses served 32 seniors in their homes by using I-pads to provide socialization and support through a nurse lead Circle of Friends program. Four nurses have assisted two daycare centers and a youth treatment center with appropriate Covid restriction guidelines. Three nurses at independent senior facilities helped ensure that seniors were tested, vaccinated and safe during the pandemic. Four nurses in food pantries have given out face masks, hand sanitizer and other personal care needs, as well as appropriate Covid information. Four nurses have helped seniors find and secure vaccines in the community.This month, we want to thank all the nurses who have offered care to others. We want to show our gratitude for the continuing testament and witness to compassionate healthcare that the Deaconess Nurse Ministry brings to others through the nurses in the community. We hope you will join us in the effort to support their work by giving to “Thank a Nurse” Campaign throughout May 2021 and Give STL Day Campaign on May 6, 2021. By your contributions, we are saying thanks for the nurses who touch the lives of hundreds – whether they are facing an urgent need, a devastating diagnosis or seeking just to improve the quality of their life.Your gift, no matter how small, will make an immediate impact on the health care services offered by the Deaconess Nurses across the St. Louis Metropolitan region. Your support will make a real, lasting impact in the lives of those who are in need served by the Deaconess Nurses. You can give either by giving online through our website, through our Facebook page, calling our office at 314-395-4655, or sending a check.
Thank you for your continued support and friendship.
With gratitude,
Rev. Donna Pupillo
Executive Director