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Each year on May 6, we proudly celebrate National Nurses Day, marking the start of National Nurses Week—a tribute that continues through May 12, the birthday of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing.
This annual observance has deep roots. It began in October 1954 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Nightingale’s service during the Crimean War. In 1974, the White House officially designated a week in May to recognize nurses nationwide. Later, in 1982, thanks to advocacy from organizations like the American Nurses Association (ANA), President Ronald Reagan proclaimed May 6 as National Recognition Day for Nurses.
Today, more than 4.3 million registered nurses serve as the backbone of our healthcare system—providing expert, compassionate care in hospitals, clinics, schools, and communities across the country. Nurses are there in our most vulnerable moments, offering not only medical expertise but also empathy, strength, and hope.
This week, we encourage you to take a moment to thank the nurses in your life. Whether it’s a personal note, a kind word, or a donation in their honor—every gesture matters.
Join us in recognizing the incredible nurses at the UCSF Department of Ophthalmology and the Francis I. Proctor Foundation, whose expertise ensures quality vision care for patients near and far. Make a gift today in honor of a nurse who made a difference.
Let’s celebrate together and spread the word by sharing your messages and activities using hashtags like
#NationalNursesDay, #NursesWeek2025, #ThankYouNurses, and #NursesAppreciation.
Want to learn more? Explore these resources: