Each year during Nurses Week, we take a moment to celebrate the remarkable individuals who are the heart of healthcare — our nurses. Whether guiding someone through a new diagnosis, supporting early detection, or simplifying complex systems, our nurses make care feel human, accessible, and actionable. In every conversation, every act of advocacy, and every moment of compassion, our nurses are showing what’s possible when teams come together with one shared mission: to make it easy for people to access high-quality, affordable health and care.
Today, we are proud to spotlight reflections from some of our incredible nurses in their own words as they reflect on "The Power of Nurses to Transform Health," the theme of Nurses Week 2025.
The Voices of Our Nurses
"'The Power of Nurses to Transform Health' is about meeting people where they are — physically, emotionally, and digitally. Nursing isn’t about location — it’s about connection.”
- Velvis Thomas, BSN, RN, CCM, Nurse Care Coordinator
“I believe that, as nurses, we are in a unique position to transform health and care experiences for our Members. Nurses have always been seen as a trusted health ally. A cancer diagnosis is life-changing and being able to guide people through that as an oncology nurse navigator is a privilege.”
- Elizabeth Carr MSN, RN, OCN, ACS LION™, Oncology Nurse Navigator
“As a nurse, we are in the middle when it comes to taking care of Members. They listen to our voice as we explain what the doctors are ordering or speaking about. We have the power to educate and help manage Members' chronic health conditions and direct them to the appropriate providers.”
- Laura Surman, RN, Clinical Engagement Specialist
“What inspires me most about being a nurse today is the opportunity to make a meaningful impact by guiding Members through complex health decisions with empathy and clarity. Being part of this team allows me to combine clinical expertise with innovative, Member-centered care."
- Alexus Henderson, RN, Expert Medical Opinion Nurse Case Manager
“Nurses are at the heart of healthcare transformation, advancing health equity, influencing Member outcomes, and shaping the future of healthcare delivery. Our power lies in our skills, dedication, and knowledge of improving the health and well-being of individuals. We exist as the backbone of healthcare.”
- Lashica Hilliard, RN, Clinical Operations Manager, Advocacy, Adult and BH Complex Case Management
“Being a nurse allows me to be a voice for the vulnerable and scared. Nurses are one of the most trusted professions and people rely on us to be knowledgeable about how to manage a symptom or prevent disease.”
- Shelley Usher, MSN, RN, CBCN, ACS LION™, Sr. Manager, Oncology Nurse Navigation
“The role of nursing has evolved. We now influence care, advocate for people, and shape policy. As nurses, we are leaders who adapt and grow in response to the needs of those we serve and the healthcare system.”
- Becca Kirkwood, BSN, BMTCN, OCN, ACS LION™, Oncology Nurse Navigator
Key Themes in Their Words
From these reflections, several powerful themes shine through:
Nurses are relentless advocates, removing barriers and guiding people through some of the most complex moments in healthcare. Whether it’s coordinating care, answering urgent questions, or navigating chronic and critical conditions, they bring clarity and confidence to every step of the journey.
Healing starts with being seen, heard, and supported. Across our integrated team, nurses form trusted relationships that go far beyond clinical tasks — offering reassurance, empathy, and direction. In a virtual or in-person setting, they prove that connection is not about location — it’s about presence.
Nurses today are redefining care through a powerful combination of heart and technology. With deep empathy and cutting-edge tools, they proactively identify needs, close gaps in care, and deliver personalized support at every stage — from screening through survivorship.
Our nurses are not only caregivers — they are trailblazers and problem-solvers. They’re influencing care strategies, improving systems, and guiding Members through life-changing decisions. Their work is central to our simpler, smarter, and human-centered human experience at the One Place for Health and Care.
A Thank You to Our Nurses
To every nurse across the One Place for Health and Care — thank you. Your compassion, courage, and tireless dedication transform lives every single day.
During Nurses Week and beyond, we honor your work and extraordinary impact. Please take a moment to thank a nurse in your life — and celebrate the power of nurses to change the world, one person at a time.
