Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre (SLBMC) joins the nation in celebrating Nurses Week 2025, observed from May 11–17 under the national theme, “Our Nurses, Our Future – Caring for Nurses, Strengthens Economies.”
This year’s theme reflects the critical role nurses play—not only as compassionate caregivers, but as key contributors to health equity, innovation, and system-wide resilience. As the largest segment of the healthcare workforce, nurses shape the delivery of care and touch lives far beyond hospital walls—impacting families, communities, and the future of national development.
Director of Nursing Jacqueline JnoBaptiste expressed her deep admiration for the SLBMC nursing team:
“This is a time to recognize the essential role of nurses in shaping the past, present, and future of health care. Nurses are not only trusted care providers—they are problem solvers, advocates, educators, and change agents. Their unique position at the intersection of compassion and clinical expertise gives them the power to drive real and lasting improvements in patient care, health equity, and systemwide outcomes.”
Speaking not only as a leader, but also as a fellow nurse, JnoBaptiste continued:
“In the fast-paced, demanding world of healthcare, it’s easy to feel like we must carry it all. Nurses are conditioned to be the caregivers, the fixers, the doers, the ones who always show up. But in serving others, we often neglect ourselves—fearing that asking for help will make us appear weak. So today, I remind every nurse: care for yourself. Refill your cup. You deserve to be celebrated not just for what you do, but for who you are. You matter. Your health matters.”
SLBMC Medical Director Dr. Shivon Belle-Jarvis echoed these sentiments and emphasized the critical role nurses play within the institution and beyond:
“There is no healthcare system without nurses. They are at the heart of everything we do—from stabilizing the critically ill, to comforting grieving families, to ensuring every patient feels cared for. Their presence, professionalism, and heart set the tone for the care we deliver. This Nurses Week—and every day—we honor and thank you for all you do.”
Throughout Nurses Week, SLBMC will host a series of appreciation activities, and wellness initiatives to honor its nurses and reaffirm the institution’s commitment to supporting their holistic wellbeing.
As the nation reflects on the contributions of nurses, SLBMC encourages the public to show gratitude to the professionals who form the backbone of healthcare delivery.
When we care for those who care for us, we don’t just strengthen our health systems—we strengthen our society.
Happy Nurses Week to all nurses, and especially to the incredible SLBMC team.
