May 6th is National Nurses Day — a day to help bring awareness to their hard work and dedication and to say thanks to the millions of nurses across the country.

I’ve encountered many male and female nurses over the years, and nearly all do their work in a compassionate and professional manner. They often go above and beyond their duties — no matter how troubling the situation might be.

I experienced this several years ago.

I had an infection, the flu, and was covered in every form of bodily fluids. I was such a mess the ER nurses had to cut my clothes off to treat me. I felt bad — but felt worse for the nurses dealing with my mess.

I kept thinking to myself, why would anyone want to be a nurse and have to deal with such things every day?

When I felt better, I thanked and apologized to both nurses and explained how I became extremely sick on my way to the ER.

I asked one of them why she became a nurse since it was so unglamorous and difficult work.

“Because I knew it was something I needed to do,” she said. “To have someone come to the hospital so ill and afraid and help make them feel well again is an incredible feeling. Sure, it’s long hours and stressful, but the positives sure outweigh the negatives.”

A few of those negatives include long shifts, up to 12 hours. Very limited and short breaks if time allows. Bossy visitors who think the rules don’t apply to them. Learning new hospital routines, policies, and computer software. Nursing never has a slow season; every day is hectic. Dealing with the never-ending “I needs!” Such as “I need a drink with ice!” “I need a better pillow!” “I need something else for lunch!” “I need a large urinal!” “I need my back scratched!” “I need a warm blanket and not this paper-thin thing!” “I need to go to the bathroom, like right now!”

Such a demanding and important job should get better pay.

Dealing with doctors that have “God complexes.” And most of all, taking care of ill people with COVID and putting their own health and safety at risk.

This National Nurses Day, be thankful and appreciative for the nurses in our area, not just on May 6th but every day.