Robert Burger, MD, Director, Women’s Cancer Center at Fox Chase Cancer Center

Christine M Rafferty RN, BSN, OCN Staff Nurse

Wandi Ortiz, RN Staff Nurse, surgical-telemetry unit

I’d like to introduce you to Christine and Wandi, just two of the many Fox Chase nurses who represent our outstanding nursing staff. Their compassion and dedication is what sets Fox Chase nurses apart from the rest. As a physician, I am extremely proud of our nursing staff and their deep commitment to patients.

While it is important to recognize the efforts of our nurses on a daily basis, we get a special opportunity next week when we observe the official Nurses’ Week 2012 (May 7-11) with special activities every day.

If you are a patient, caregiver or friend, we hope you will join us on Wednesday for the Nurses’ Awards Ceremony at noon in the Auditorium. In the past, this event was designed for staff, but this year the nursing staff would like to extend invitations to you – patients, caregivers and friends. If you’d like to attend, please contact Jane Edwards (jane.edwards@fccc.edu) or 215-728-4315.

Monday, May 7 – Distribution of Gifts to Nursing Staff

Tuesday, May 8 – Reiki Therapy Sessions

Wednesday, May 9 – Nurses’ Awards Ceremony and Dessert Reception (Auditorium), featuring 2012 Nurse Recognition Award, three travel scholarships, the Team Award and the Magnet Moment award.

Thursday, May 10 - Night Shift Snack Baskets

Friday, May 11 - Nurses’ Week Raffle Drawing (chances are $1 each, 6 for $5 and proceeds benefit nursing education)

I’d like to recognize the outstanding efforts of the Nurses’ Week committee for planning a special, fun-filled week. The committee includes Chris Amoroso, Marianne Bonner, Linda Coli, Deb Donahue, Aubrey Edwards, Janet Farley, Caitlin Foley, Fredy-Jo Grafman, Christine Kappler, Margie Kearns, Jessica Kelly, Lisa Ludwig, Laura Mackin, Janice Moore, Mickey Mullin, Donna Ozovek, Sarah Porzig, Monica Scanlon and Helen Schwartz.

Raffle items needed!

The Nurses’ Week Committee is collecting raffle items for next Friday’s raffle. If you would like to donate an item or two, it would be much appreciated. You can bring items to the Nurses’ Award Program on Wednesday, May 9 or contact Jane Edwards to make arrangements for drop-off. Items of particular interest include sporting event or theater tickets, as well as gift certificate for manicures/pedicures, restaurants and shops. All proceeds of the Nurses’ Week raffle will benefit nursing education.

Be well,

Bob