The Michigan House today approved a resolution from state Rep. Jamie Thompson that recognizes and celebrates the many dedicated individuals throughout the state who help people and their families with vital care.

Thompson’s House Resolution 88 declares May 6-12 as Nurses Week in Michigan. The state is home to more than 175,000 registered nurses who work in hospitals, clinics, home health institutions, public health departments, correctional facilities, and more. Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing, was born on May 12, 1820 – marking the culmination of the week within which the resolution falls.

“From our largest cities to our most rural townships, nurses are the quiet strength of our healthcare system,” said Thompson, of Brownstown, when addressing the resolution on the House floor. “They are the first to respond, the last to leave, and often the ones who carry the emotional weight long after their shift ends. They are the ones with courage and strength to advocate for a patient, to comfort a grieving family, or remain calm in the face of crisis.

“Even as these hardworking heroes face exhaustion, staffing shortages and workplace safety concerns, nurses in Michigan continue to provide critical services. We owe them an immense debt of gratitude not just this week, but throughout the year.”

Thompson, who is a licensed practical nurse, noted nurses in Michigan continue to report high rates of burnout and are leaving the profession at alarming rates due to unsustainable working conditions – especially in rural areas.

“We must be committed at the state level to supporting and uplifting our nurses who live and work in Michigan so these lifesaving professionals have the resources and flexibility they need to provide high-quality care and continue within their careers,” Thompson said. “Everyone who has been touched by a nurse’s care knows the difference that nurse has made in their lives. Today, we do more than say “thank you” to our nurses. We recognize their value and we honor their service.”

PHOTO INFORMATION: State Rep. Jamie Thompson (front row, second from left) was joined by members of the Michigan Nurses Association at the state Capitol in Lansing on Tuesday, May 6. The Michigan House on Tuesday adopted Thompson’s House Resolution 88, declaring May 6-12 as Nurses Week in Michigan.