“The Power Of Nurses”: St. Mary’s County Honors Those Behind The Care

LEONARDTOWN, Md. — Nurses across St. Mary’s County were recognized for their compassion, resilience and critical role in health care during the May 5 meeting of the St. Mary’s County commissioners, where Commissioner Eric Colvin presented a proclamation designating May 6-12, 2026, as National Nurses Week.

Reading from the proclamation, Colvin highlighted the essential role nurses play in the community, noting their “pivotal role in promoting and maintaining the health and well-being of communities across the U.S.” The proclamation also recognized nurses as “compassionate caregivers, advocates, educators, and leaders,” whose dedication continues to shape the quality of care for individuals and families.

The designation aligns with the national observance of National Nurses Week and reflects the 2026 theme, “The Power of Nurses,” which celebrates the profession’s impact and coincides with the 130th anniversary of the American Nurses Association.

A Calling Rooted In Compassion

Following the proclamation, Sharon Nicholson, human resources director at St. Mary’s Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, spoke about the emotional and personal commitment required in nursing, describing it as more than just a profession.

“The only thing I wanted to be was a nurse,” she said, reflecting on her early aspirations. “You have to have the right heart, you have to have the right compassion to be able to do this.”

She emphasized that while technology and patient needs have evolved, the emotional demands of the job remain constant. “No amount of money makes this job worth it,” she said. “We’re burning out because of the situations that we’re put in where we are helpless.”

Her remarks also touched on workforce challenges, urging leaders to support the next generation of nurses. “We’ve got to encourage these young people to start wanting to be a nurse,” she said, warning that the field cannot afford to lose experienced professionals.

Local Nurses Share Gratitude And Perspective

Several nursing professionals from across the county addressed the commissioners, sharing their experiences and appreciation.

Sarah Kirby, RN and director of nursing at St. Mary’s Nursing Center, thanked the community and her team.

“Thank you to the community, our residents, and their families, for trusting us to take care of your loved ones during the last stage of their lives,” Kirby said. She also praised her staff for “showing up every day… taking care of our residents as if they were their own family members.”

Tabbatha Gantt, RN, assistant director of nursing, spoke about teamwork in patient care.

“It’s an honor to be a part of this team where we collaborate and brainstorm on a day-to-day basis to ensure the safety and dignity of our residents,” she said.

Patty Belanger, an infection prevention nurse, expressed appreciation to county leaders. “I’d just like to thank the commissioners for the proclamation,” she said.

Rebecca Young, unit manager of the Alzheimer’s unit, echoed that sentiment. “I want to thank the commissioners for having us here today,” she said.

Health System Leaders Highlight Community Impact

Jeremy Hawker, MSN, RN, vice president of patient care services and chief nursing officer at MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital, reflected on his decades in the profession.

“I’ve been a nurse for about 30 years, and every day, I’m just grateful to wake up and be able to take care of our community,” Hawker said.

He also introduced several nursing leaders who support patient care across the region, including Tamara Brewster, director of nursing at MedStar Georgetown Cancer Institute; Anita Wetzel, director of nursing for medical, surgical and pediatric services; and Molly Stevens, assistant director of nursing for perioperative services.

Hawker noted the scale of care provided locally, referencing the hundreds of nurses serving patients throughout St. Mary’s County. “I appreciate the recognition and everything everyone has done for us in supporting St. Mary’s,” he said. “We just love the community.”

Recognizing A Vital Profession

The proclamation concluded with a call for residents to join in honoring nurses and their contributions to the health and well-being of the community.

From bedside care to leadership roles, speakers emphasized that nursing is rooted in compassion, resilience and a deep commitment to others, qualities that continue to define the profession across St. Mary’s County.

As National Nurses Week is here, county leaders and health care professionals alike encourage residents to take a moment to recognize the nurses in their lives, not only for the care they provide in moments of crisis, but for the quiet, everyday compassion that defines their work. In hospitals, care centers and homes across St. Mary’s County, nurses continue to serve as a steady presence, offering comfort, strength and healing when it is needed most.

Watch the full proclamation below at 22:38.

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