OKEECHOBEE — The City of Okeechobee officially proclaimed May 6–12 as Nurses Week, recognizing the extraordinary dedication and impact of nurses at HCA Florida Raulerson Hospital. The proclamation, presented during the May 5 City Council meeting, highlights the vital role nurses play in advancing the health and well-being of the community.

OKEECHOBEE –– The City of Okeechobee officially proclaimed May 6–12 as Nurses Week, recognizing the extraordinary dedication and impact of nurses at HCA Florida Raulerson Hospital. Pictured left to right: CEO Alex Masmela, Johnna Wynn, Jennifer Prescott, Thresa Starnes, Careem Searchwell, Becky McKee, Dorothy Watson (CNO), Gail Prather, and Mayor Dowling Watford. [Photo courtesy HCA Florida …

With more than 100,000 nurses nationwide, HCA Healthcare recognizes its nursing workforce as central to its mission: above all else, a commitment to the care and improvement of human life.

This year’s theme, “The Power of Nurses,” reflects the strength, resilience and compassion nurses bring to every patient interaction. From bedside care to community outreach, nurses have a profound and lasting impact on the individuals and families they serve.

Observed annually from May 6 through May 12, National Nurses Week honors more than 5 million registered nurses across the United States, recognizing their critical contributions to improving health outcomes and elevating the quality of care nationwide.

OKEECHOBEE –– HCA Florida Raulerson Hospital nurses left to right: Lisa Rivera, Johnna Wynn, Careem Searchwell, Beck McKee, Theresa Starnes, Dorothy Watson (CNO), Jennifer Prescott, Jessica Pelaez, Gail Prather. In the Center: Alex Masmela (CEO) [Photo courtesy HCA Florida Raulerson Hospital]

Healthcare organizations mark the week with special celebrations and meaningful recognition, paying tribute to the essential work nurses perform every day. Nurses are often the first to provide comfort and the steady presence patients rely on throughout their care journey.

“Nurses bring both skill and a healer’s touch to every patient they serve,” said Dorothy Watson, chief nursing officer at HCA Florida Raulerson Hospital. “We are grateful to the City of Okeechobee for this recognition and proud to celebrate the incredible nurses at HCA Florida Raulerson Hospital.”
As Nurses Week continues, the community is encouraged to join in recognizing and celebrating the nurses whose dedication continues to shape healthier lives across Okeechobee and beyond.