Celebrating our exceptional nurses on International Nurses Day

·

Nurses across Australia put their lives at risk every day to offer exceptional health care to those of us feeling at our lowest. Today is International Nurses Day and The Greek Herald wants to celebrate the nurses who play a vital role in our society, particularly over the last six months as Australia responded to the COVID-19 pandemic.

In 2020, the work of nurses has been unexpectedly thrust into the spotlight. The World Health Organisation declared this year the International Year of the Nurse and Midwife. Nightly applause has resounded across many countries in tribute to their toil during the pandemic. One artist, known as the elusive ‘Banksy,’ even created an artwork depicting a child playing with a nurse toy as a sign of respect to our ‘heroes.’

Nurses are finally getting the recognition they deserve. Their often hidden work has finally been brought to light and they should be immensely proud of their collective hard work, compassion and resilience in the most difficult of circumstances.

The Greek Herald itself heralded one Greek-Australian nurse, Helen Zahos, just last month for her work on the frontline of the coronavirus pandemic.

READ MORE: The Greek Australian essential workers helping the country amid COVID-19 crisis.

At the time, Helen said while nurses felt an ‘underlying pressure’ to perform as soon as they turned up to hospital, the public’s support helped them through a difficult time.

“We watch what is happening overseas and that medical staff are susceptible to contracting COVID-19 and it is something we are aware of. But the mood in the unit is good. We are prepared and we are sticking together as a team to get through this time,” Helen said.

“The majority of the public have been amazing as well. We have received all kinds of support including messages from children and cafes that have brought us coffee, chocolates and flowers. It has boosted us during a tough time.”

And while nurses have learnt not to expect accolades for their work, it is this newfound community support and recognition which they hope continues long after the coronavirus pandemic eases.

Cretan Convention - Web Banner

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

From crisis to compassion: Timos Roussos and his family’s mercy mission in war-torn Cyprus

When Turkish troops landed on Cyprus on 20 July 1974, six-year-old Timos Roussos was sitting on the floor of his family’s home in Lemesos.

A granddaughter returns: Georgia Georgiou retraces her yiayia’s occupied village in Cyprus

When Georgia Georgiou handed over her Cypriot ID at the border checkpoint to cross into occupied northern Cyprus, she felt an ache.

‘You never get over it’: A childhood shattered by the Turkish invasion of Cyprus

On a warm July morning in 1974, 10-year-old Anastasia Di Loreto (née Karatzia) was jolted awake by the sound of bombs falling on Kyrenia.

Cyprus: The paradox of tolerance and impunity for Turkey

The lack of a unified, systematic and practical strategy on the part of Greece has led the Cyprus crisis into national disarray.

Lost homes and lingering hope: Greek-Cypriots reflect on Turkish invasion and its aftermath

From hidden stories to haunting memories, two Greek-Cypriot men share what it means to carry the burden of Cyprus’ past.

You May Also Like

Liquidators appointed to Bill Papas’ troubled Forum group of companies

Administrators say they are within 24 hours of reaching an agreement to sell the main business unit, Forum Group.

Former Hells Angel, Peter Zervas, charged with weapons offences

Former Hells Angels member, Peter Zervas, has been arrested driving through Sydney’s CBD allegedly with an extend­able baton in his car.

Greek Australian Dialogue Series continues with Mayor of Athens, Kostas Bakoyannis

The Greek Australian Dialogue Series continues next week with a zoom conference with the Mayor of Athens, Kostas Bakoyannis.