A Nurses Week message from CNO Doug Mitchell

Dear nurses and Nursing Services team members,

Every year at this time, I think about how blessed I am to be working as the Chief Nursing Officer (CNO), here in Morgantown, for WVU Medicine.

Nurses Week causes me to really contemplate why I’ve been fortunate enough to get to serve in this position, and to think about all the nurses and Nursing Services team members who serve our patients and their loved ones, and the sacrifices that so many make so that we can fulfill our honorable mission. 

During normal times, it’s hard enough to find words that adequately express my appreciation for the great work that our nurses and Nursing Services team members do, day in and day out, mostly without praise or fanfare. This year, it’s not possible. I can only say: Thank you for all you do! 

I never forget, having been the recipient of expert and compassionate nursing care here, what a difference you make. 

As we celebrate Nurses Week in 2021, I hope that you can take this time to reflect on what a difference you make in the lives of all we serve. Make a decision to give yourself more care, compassion, and grace, as you give to your patients. Have a little fun…have a treat, find Gus and give him a belly rub, get your hands blessed, or simply do what makes you happy! 

Lastly, if you find that you are too fatigued or emotionally injured to find joy after the past year and a half, decide to give yourself the gift of help and assistance. 

Happy Nurses Week to all our nurses and Nursing Services staff members. You are amazing!

In service,

Doug Mitchell
Chief Nursing Officer