Hello SUN members,
Today, May 12, is not only the first day of National Nursing Week but also Indigenous Nurses Day and International Nurses Day. We have so much to reflect on and be grateful for.
This is why I would like to dedicate my first President's Message to saying “thank you”.
Above all, thank you, SUN members, for the long hours and excellent care you give your patients in every corner of our province, every single day. Recent years have been tough, but you have risen to the challenge. Saskatchewan’s healthcare system would grind to a halt without your dedication and hard work.
As your newly elected President, I also want to thank you for your trust. I commit to equally representing RNs, RPNs, and NPs while always remaining open and transparent. I believe in evidence-based solutions and recognize that a solution in one place may not work in another. As a registered nurse who has primarily practiced in small towns in Northern Saskatchewan, I also know that our different geographies, communities, and even our nursing designations, require unique solutions that may not benefit everyone. Ultimately, however, we have far more in common than what separates us, and this is what makes our collective voice so powerful.
That's why this year's Nursing Week theme, "The Power of Nurses to Transform Health," really resonates with me. All of you, your ideas, hard work, and your advocacy offer the biggest hope for positive change. When we stand together, we have an influence that cannot be ignored. A nurse's voice is an incredible thing. Our voices are informed; we understand health, we understand our population, and we understand the system we work in. Our voices are caring; we are the biggest advocates for our patients and our profession. And together, our voices will create change. This is why I will continue to call for a nursing task force. Your voices must be heard if we are to transform health care for everyone in Saskatchewan for the better.
Finally, I would also like to thank Tracy Zambory for her years of service, dedication, and passion for SUN. Our union would not be what it is today without you, and you have my utmost respect.
In solidarity,
Bryce Boynton
SUN President
