Angelite Nurses

The vital role of nurses in addressing the threat of chronic diseases to global health and well-being highlights the celebration of the 88th Foundation Anniversary of the Philippine Nurses Association and the 53rd Nurses’ Week on October 26-28, 2010, at the historic landmark Manila Hotel, with the theme “Delivering Quality, Servicing Communities: The Challenge for the Filipino Nurse Leading Chronic Care,” which has been adopted from the goal being pursued by the International Council of Nurses (ICN).

The Philippine Nurses Association (PNA) is responding to the challenge of the ICN for all nurses worldwide to lead the fight against chronic diseases, by making sure that Filipino nurses are given every opportunity to provide utmost attention and care to people with chronic conditions. With the rising trend of chronic illness, there is the need to make available appropriate and affordable care for the sick, giving them renewed hope and strength.

Chronic diseases – diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, respiratory illness, cancer, and lately, Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) – are the world’s biggest killers, causing an estimated 35 million deaths each year, of which 80 percent are in developing countries. These diseases may be preventable, if detected early, but if they do occur, the needs of the patients must be met with compassion, care, and attention.

The celebration provides an opportunity for Filipino nurses to renew their vision and commitment to the uplift of their profession and the improvement of the conditions of those afflicted with chronic illness. It will also be a chance to discuss new trends and breakthroughs in the nursing profession and exchange ideas with their visiting foreign counterparts.

We congratulate the Philippine Nurses Association, headed by its President Dr. Teresita I. Barcelo, its Officers and Members, on the occasion of their 88th Foundation Day and 53rd Nurses’ Week Celebration.

We wish them all the best and success in all their endeavors. - via www.mb.com.ph