Category: February Weeks

  • NIRVANA DAY – February 8 or February 15

    NIRVANA DAY 

    Every year on either February 8th or 15th, Mahayana Buddhists throughout the world celebrate Nirvana Day. The event, also known as Parinirvana Day, commemorates Buddha’s death and his entrance into complete Nirvana.

    Some people mistakenly think that the historical Buddha was a god. However, he was an ordinary person named Siddhartha Gautama. Buddha was actually his title. The word “buddha” means “a person who is awake.”

    The Buddha is believed to have been born in 567 BC in Nepal. As the son of a king, he was called Prince Siddhartha. He was 29 years old when he encountered his first sick person, old man, and then a corpse. He realized that even though he was royalty, he too, would one day die. To prepare for this day, he went on a spiritual quest. During this time, he renounced his worldly life. Eventually, he discovered that meditation was the only path to a peaceful existence.

    One day, he sat in meditation beneath a ficus tree until he realized enlightenment. From that time on, he became known as The Buddha. He spent the rest of his life teaching others how to realize enlightenment for themselves. This enlightenment focuses on four noble truths:

    • Life involves suffering.
    • Having desires causes suffering.
    • Overcoming desires can end suffering.
    • Following the Eightfold Path, which is represented by a wheel, can also end suffering.

    When enlightenment is realized, it is called partial nirvana. Complete or final nirvana is achieved only in death. This is when all want and suffering is gone. The Buddha died at the age of 80. After his death, his disciples established schools in his name.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #NirvanaDay

    • Contemplate the teachings of Buddha.
    • Buddhist monasteries and temples to hold meditation retreats.
    • Some people remember their family members or friends who have died. Doing so helps them reflect on the fact that death is part of life for everyone.
    • Learn more about The Buddha and his teachings.
    • Read about how Buddhism influenced these famous people: Tiger Woods, Steve Jobs, George Lucas, and Tina Turner.
    • Read a book on Buddhism, such as, What the Buddha Taught, Buddhism for Beginners, or The Art of Happiness.

    Share this day on social media with #NirvanaDay.

    NIRVANA DAY HISTORY

    This day has been observed for thousands of years, primarily by Mahayana Buddhists. These Buddhists reside in China, Japan, Korea, Tibet, Vietnam, and other parts of the world. Since the date is not exactly known when The Buddha died, some Buddhists observe this day on February 8th. The majority of Buddhists observe it on February 15th.

  • WORLD INTERFAITH HARMONY WEEK – First Week in February

    WORLD INTERFAITH HARMONY WEEK

    Every year during the first week in February, World Interfaith Harmony Week promotes unity among people regardless of their religious beliefs.

    Many see religion as something that separates people. One reason for this is the many different religions and faiths throughout the world. According to recent statistics, the world recognizes over 4,000 religions.

    We best define religion as a system of beliefs and practices that usually centers around a superhuman controlling power. Some people use the words “religion” and “faith” interchangeably. When one has a particular faith, they worship a personal God or gods. For most, faith has transcendental and spiritual elements. Many people describe their faith as something that has transforming power. Faith often inspires its followers to become better people.

    Achieving harmony amongst the different faiths requires a mutual understanding and interreligious dialogue. Focusing on similarities instead of differences also helps foster unity. For example, almost all world religions have a sense of community. The different religions also try to answer big questions, such as, “what is my purpose in life?” In addition, most religions have in common the idea of a golden rule that says to treat others as you wish to be treated. Forgiveness, gratitude, love, compassion, prayer, and peace are also elements that many faiths have in common.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #InterfaithHarmonyWeek

    Every year during this week, people of faith host various events to foster harmony. Some of these events include educational seminars, interfaith worship services, prayer vigils, movie screenings, and community art projects. In addition, organizations are encouraged to create their own events that promote interfaith harmony. Each year the King of Jordan awards monetary prizes to the organizers for the best events.

    To participate in this week:

    • Learn about different faiths around the world.
    • Host or attend an interfaith worship service in your community.
    • Go to a different kind of worship or prayer service that you normally wouldn’t attend.
    • Connect with others in your community of different faiths.

    Spread awareness for this week on social media with #InterfaithHarmonyWeek

    WORLD INTERFAITH HARMONY WEEK HISTORY

    In 2010, King Abdullah II of Jordan proposed to the United Nations a weeklong event that would promote a culture of peace and nonviolence. The UN General Assembly adopted the proposal and declared the first week in February as World Interfaith Harmony Week.

  • NATIONAL INTEGRATED RESPIRATORY CARE WEEK – Week of April 7

    NATIONAL INTEGRATED RESPIRATORY CARE WEEK

    April 7th marks the beginning of the inaugural National Integrated Respiratory Care Week, recognizing integrated respiratory care and the respiratory care therapists, physicians, nurses and caregivers committed to providing quality care to patients who rely on ventilators to breathe.

    The combination of knowledgeable specialists, advanced technology, and patient education brings together powerful results. Many patients with a range of conditions such as lung disease, muscular dystrophy, COPD, ALS, and other respiratory conditions requiring a ventilator benefit from advancements that brought integrated respiratory care to fruition. At a time when respiratory care specialists and healthcare professionals are on the front lines fighting a global pandemic from a respiratory virus, celebrating the benefits of integrated respiratory care is more important than ever.

    All week long, we shine a spotlight on Integrated Respiratory Care. It celebrates the vital work done every day by respiratory therapists, doctors, nurses and everyone who has helped make integrated respiratory care accessible to patients and their caregivers.

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    HOW TO OBSERVE #IntegratedRespiratoryCareWeek

    Recognize someone dedicated to integrated respiratory care – whether a doctor, respiratory therapist, nurse, or especially a patient or caregiver. Thank them for their contribution to improving respiratory health. Everyone involved deserves recognition for their contributions to improve respiratory care.

    If you have experience with integrated respiratory care, please share your story using #IntegratedRespiratoryCareWeek to share on social media. Learn more at www.VentecLife.com.

    NATIONAL INTEGRATED RESPIRATORY CARE WEEK HISTORY

    The annual observance of National Integrated Respiratory Week recognizes the team of professionals, caregivers, and families committed to providing quality care to patients who depend on ventilators to breathe.

    National Integrated Respiratory Care Week coincides with the anniversary of the FDA clearing VOCSN for approval on April 7, 2017and establishing the concept of integrated respiratory care. VOCSN, created by Ventec Life Systems, stands for the five devices that it replaces – Ventilator, Oxygen Concentrator, Cough Assist, Suction, Nebulizer. VOCSN bridges the technology divide between the hospital and the home. And it works for pediatric and adult patients.

    Throughout the week, Ventec will be highlighting the benefits of integrated respiratory care to patients, caregivers, and providers. Topics will include:

    • Compliance: Making it easier for patients and caregivers to receive important treatment
    • Convenience: Having all therapies in one portable device with one circuit
    • Caregiver benefits: Easier to learn and fewer items to remember
    • Cost Benefits: The ability for providers to lower costs

    Patient, caregiver, and customer stories will be shared at www.VentecLife.com to spotlight these and other benefits of integrated respiratory care.

    In addition to producing an integrated device, Ventec Life Systems hoped to inspire those who rely on mechanical ventilation and those who are faced with a decision to use a mechanical ventilator to understand that they can still live a fulfilling and meaningful life. That hope and purpose is more important now than ever as healthcare professionals, patients and caregivers are all relying on ventilation and respiratory care to save lives amid a global pandemic.

    The Registrar at National Day Calendar proclaimed the observance to be celebrated the week of April 7th, annually.

     

  • FREELANCE WRITERS APPRECIATION WEEK – Second Week in February

    FREELANCE WRITERS APPRECIATION WEEK

    Every year during the second week in February, Freelance Writers Appreciation Week offers an opportunity to show gratitude for those who use their talent to create great content.

    Long hours. Lack of health benefits and paid vacation. Too much coffee. Constant distractions on the internet. The pressure of deadlines. Staring at a computer screen for hours on end. Articles and blog posts with no byline. And the worst part? People don’t consider it a real job! Welcome to the world of freelance writing.

    Despite some of the negative aspects, there are many benefits of being a freelance writer. They can work from virtually anywhere in the word. This includes their own home while still in their pajamas. They have flexible schedules. This is especially helpful for those who have children. They don’t need to commute. Since freelance writers don’t have to share space with others, there is a less chance of getting sick. Many freelancers write about a variety of topics. This means they are always learning new and interesting things. And the best part? Skilled freelance writers even make a living doing it.

    Freelance writers mostly used to work for print publications, such as newspapers and magazines. This is still the case for some. The advance of the internet, however, has created a need for online content. Everyone knows there is seemingly no end to the internet, which means content is always necessary. This is great job security for freelance writers!

    Freelance writers contribute their time, efforts, and energy to make the Internet, and the world, a better place. Isn’t it time they get the recognition they deserve? This is exactly what this week is all about!

    HOW TO OBSERVE #FreelanceWritersAppreciationWeek

    During the week, some writing websites have free giveaways for freelance writers. Companies who hire freelance writers send an e-mail or a note of appreciation. Other companies hold digital parties for their freelance writers or send them an online gift card. Some lucky freelance writers might even get taken out for coffee or lunch.

    Other ways to participate in the week:

    • If you know a freelance writer, ask them about their work and what they like best about it.
    • If you’re good with words, consider becoming a freelance writer.
    • Learn about famous writers that started out freelancing including Upton Sinclair and Aline Brosh McKenna.
    • If you’re a freelance writer, take time for some much-needed self-care (you know you need it!)

    No matter what you do, try to show appreciation for freelance writers. Even a small token of appreciation goes a long way. Also, be sure to share this fun week on social media with #FreelanceWritersAppreciationWeek

    FREELANCE WRITERS APPRECIATION WEEK

    Freelance Writers Appreciation Week has been observed every year since 2013. It’s not known who created this day. It was most likely an underappreciated freelance writer who felt they deserved some recognition for all their hard work.

  • DUCHENNE MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY AWARENESS WEEK – February 13-18

    DUCHENNE MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY AWARENESS WEEK

    During February 13-18, National Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Week brings support to those with a progressive genetic disorder.

    Because Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a genetic disorder that affects the x chromosome, it primarily impacts boys. However, in rare cases, it can affect girls, too.

    Our muscles require dystrophin to keep the cells together. The disorder causes muscle degeneration and weakness by causing changes to dystrophin.

    In children, early signs include developmental delays in sitting, standing, and walking. They display progressive muscle weakness. Most children require a wheelchair by the age of 13. As they grow, other areas of health are impacted, such as the heart and lungs.

    Research focuses on gene therapy with the hope of finding a substitute for dystrophin. Other research seeks ways to protect the muscle and help it to repair and regrow. Some research efforts have found their way to clinical trials.

    While research and clinical trials continue, families continue to seek the care and support necessary and raise awareness along the way.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #DuchenneMuscularDystrophyAwarenessWeek

    There are several ways to show your support for the DMD community.

    • Learn more about DMD.
    • Support research efforts by donating.
    • Ask questions and offer to join a family as they spread awareness.
    • Advocate for someone with DMD or help them to be their own advocate.
    • Join a fundraiser near you or start one that will help raise awareness each year.
    • Attend an event where a DMD Ambassador is speaking to learn directly from someone with DMD.

    Use#DuchenneMuscularDystrophyAwarenessWeek to share on social media.

    DUCHENNE MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY AWARENESS WEEK

    Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy founded DMDAW to show support for individuals and their families with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.

  • CONGENITAL HEART DEFECT AWARENESS WEEK – February 7 – 14

    CONGENITAL HEART DEFECT AWARENESS WEEK

    Every year from February 7th to February 14th, Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Week promotes awareness and provides education about congenital heart defects.

    Congenital heart defects (CHD) are the most common birth defect. According to the CDC, 40,000 babies a year are born with a heart defect. This is about 1% of all babies in the United States. This means that nearly 1 in 100 babies are born with a heart defect. On a global level, about 1.35 million babies are born each year with CHD. Despite its prevalence, CHD research is underfunded due to a lack of public recognition.

    CHD occurs when a part of the heart doesn’t develop normally. This can cause a number of problems, including changes in blood blow, poorly developed valves, reduced oxygen levels, and holes in the heart. Some defects are milder than others. Mild heart defects may not require treatment. Complex heart defects, however, may require open-heart surgery. Sometimes more than one surgery, or a heart transplant, is necessary.

    Babies born with CHD usually have certain symptoms. These include trouble breathing, poor weight gain, poor circulation, and tiring easily. Babies with reduced oxygen levels have blue lips and fingernails, which is called cyanosis. There is no cure for CHD. However, treatment can greatly enhance the quality of life and add years to a child’s life. Thanks to research and advances in pediatric cardiology, more babies than ever are reaching adulthood.

    Types of CHD

    There are several types of CHD. Some of the most common include:

    • Ventricular septal defects
    • Atrial septal defects
    • Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF)
    • Pulmonary valve stenosis
    • Patent ductus arteriosus
    • Dextro-transposition of the great arteries (D-TGA)
    • Aortic valve stenosis
    • Single ventricle defects, such as double outlet right ventricle (DORV) and hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS)
    • Some babies are born with more than one defect. For example, they may have a single ventricle with pulmonary stenosis.

    For many babies born with CHD, the cause of their heart defect is unknown. Some research suggests that CHD is hereditary. Some CHDs occur because of a genetic disorder. Smoking while pregnant, premature birth, and mothers with chronic health issues, are also believed to increase the risk of CHD.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #CongenitalHeartDefectAwarenessWeek

    Health organizations, such as The Children’s Heart Foundation, the Pediatric Congenital Heart Association, and Mended Little Hearts hold a variety of events during the week. These events include charity races, heart walks, symposiums, and informational presentations. To participate:

    • If you were born with CHD, or have a child with CHD, share your story.
    • Give to a heart organization supporting CHD research.
    • Learn more about congenital heart defects.
    • Wear a red and blue CHD awareness ribbon.
    • Read about famous people with CHD like Olympic snowboarder Shaun White, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Brian Littrell of the Backstreet Boys.
    • Watch the movie Something the Lord Made about the first-ever open heart surgery performed on a baby with a heart defect.

    Share this day on social media with #CongenitalHeartDefectAwarenessWeek or #CHDAwarenessWeek

    CONGENITAL HEART DEFECT AWARENESS WEEK HISTORY

    This special week has always been held in February during American Heart Month.

  • NATIONAL FEEDING TUBE AWARENESS WEEK – First Full Week in February

    NATIONAL FEEDING TUBE AWARENESS WEEK

    National Feeding Tube Awareness Week focuses on the positive benefits of feeding tubes. During the first full week in February, the annual observance educates the public on this life-saving intervention.

    While all of us eat to survive, some people receive their nutrition differently. Their day to day life relies on tube feeding to receive their calories and essential nutrients.

    There are hundreds of different conditions that may require the nutritional support of tube feeding. The week aims to increase awareness about the types of conditions the lead to the need for tube feeding. It also offers resources providing support for proper nutrition.

    Another goal of the week is to dispell myths associated with tube feeding. Those with feeding tubes can lead full and healthy lives. They do not have to remain in the hospital but can administer their tube feeding at home or even on the go.

    Tube feeding does require medical attention and constant care. People of all ages are impacted by conditions that result in the need for tube feeding. Family support is helpful at any age. Understanding in the workplace and at school improves a person’s socio-economic outlook, broadening their support network.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #FeedingTubeAwarenessWeek

    Learn more about feeding tubes, tube feeding, and enteral nutrition. If you have a feeding tube, share your experience. Help remove the stigma and dispell the myths of feeding tubes. Share what you think is important for the world to know. Support friends and family with feeding tubes. Ask them what their biggest obstacles are and ask how to help them to overcome them.

    Other ways to participate:

    • Host a fundraiser that supports feeding tube awareness or research
    • Promote an awareness or educational event
    • Write about your story
    • Share a video
    • Go to the source – watch a video or read stories by people with feeding tubes

    Use #FeedingTubeAwarenessWeek to share on social media.

    NATIONAL FEEDING TUBE AWARENESS WEEK HISTORY

    Feeding Tube Awareness created the week-long observance in 2011 to raise awareness about tube feeding and the benefits of feeding tubes.

  • INTERNATIONAL NETWORKING WEEK – First Week in February

    INTERNATIONAL NETWORKING WEEK

    International Networking Week brings together business professionals around the globe to share their growing experience. During the first week in February, join millions of people in marketing, sales, finance, small and corporate business.

    Every business professional has goals. Whether its to grow your professional brand or to promote your business through social media, networking develops the professional support system.

    The week-long event encourages professionals to thank the mentors and collogues in their networks who’ve been essential to their success. By doing so, we also maintain those connections and keep them vital.

    Networking includes numerous benefits to the business professional. For example, one advantage is honing your skills. By connecting with those who share your interests, they can help you troubleshoot problem areas. On the other side, by networking out of your usual circles, you gain additional knowledge, skills, and connections.

    Other benefits include:

    • advancing your career and gaining career support
    • confidence building
    • new perspective
    • referrals
    • life-long friendships
    • mentor/mentee relationships

    No matter how long you’ve been in the world of business, knowing how to network increases your profile. The week celebrates the benefits and the people who make networking work.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #NetworkingWeek

    Communities around the world participate in the week-long event by hosting talks, mixers, and fundraisers. Speakers are invited to share their experiences networking and growing their professional networks. Check the International Networking Week website for global activities near you or host an event. Use #NetworkingWeek to share your activities.

    INTERNATIONAL NETWORKING WEEK HISTORY

    Since 2007, BNI founded International Networking Week as a global initiative bringing professionals together to celebrate the power of networking.

    Each year, the observance includes a theme. Examples of previous years’ themes include:

    • 2020 Dreaming Big
    • 2019 A New World of Opportunity
    • 2018 Diversity!
  • BOY SCOUTS ANNIVERSARY WEEK – First Full Week in February

    BOY SCOUTS ANNIVERSARY WEEK

    Every year during the first full week of February, the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) celebrate their anniversary.

    The Boy Scouts of America is one of the largest scouting organizations in the country. They are also one of the largest youth organizations in the United States. Over 2 million youths participate in Boy Scouts. There are also one million adult volunteers.

    For over 100 years the BSA has helped youth create memorable experiences and develop future leaders. Members of the organization are encouraged to participate in troop meetings, engage in challenges, take part in service projects, go on outdoor adventures, and do team-building exercises.

    When a person becomes a Boy Scout, they advance to different levels. Younger kids start out as Cub Scouts. Advancement through the Cub Scouts depends upon their age or grade level. Once they achieve the Arrow of Light ranking, they advance to Boy Scouts. Instead of progressing by age, Boy Scouts advance by earning badges.

    The ranks for Boy Scouts are:

    • Tenderfoot
    • Second Class
    • First-class
    • Star
    • Life
    • Eagle

    The Eagle Scout is the highest achievement for Boy Scouts. Eagle Scouts must earn a minimum of 21 merit badges. Additionally, they must demonstrate Scout spirit and leadership within their troop.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #BoyScoutAnniversaryWeek

    Every year during this week, scouting packs across the country host events that educate the public about this organization. Several packs also host a birthday party called a blue and gold banquet. Community leaders are often invited to speak during the banquet. The banquet also serves as an opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments of the scouts.

    If you don’t know a lot about Boy Scouts, it’s the perfect week to learn about them. You can also read about famous Boy Scouts including Stephen Spielberg, Michael Jordan, Neil Armstrong, Martin Luther King, Jr., George Strait, and John F. Kennedy. Share the week on social media with #BoyScoutAnniversaryWeek.

    BOY SCOUT ANNIVERSARY WEEK HISTORY

    The Boy Scouts of America was founded on February 8, 1910. February 8th marks National Boy Scouts Day. The day is celebrated during Boy Scout Anniversary Week. The Boy Scouts of America has its roots in Great Britain. British Army officer, Lieutenant General Robert Stephenson Smyth Badin-Powell founded the Boy Scout Association in 1908. W.D. Boyce, a newspaperman and entrepreneur, is credited for bringing the scouting organization to the U.S. The Boy Scouts of America has seen many changes through the years. However, its original purpose, to train youth in responsible citizenship, character development, and self-reliance, has remained the same.

  • NATIONAL PATIENT RECOGNITION WEEK – First Week in February

    NATIONAL PATIENT RECOGNITION WEEK

    Held during the first week of February, National Patient Recognition Week places the emphasis on patients, rather than healthcare workers. It’s also a week where healthcare workers recommit to ensuring patient satisfaction.

    According to a recent survey by the Physicians Foundation, doctors see about 20 patients a day. For nurses working in a hospital, it’s not uncommon for them to have 9 or 10 patients at one time. With this many patients to look after, it can be a challenge to meet their needs. This is one reason weeks like this are important. It gives healthcare providers an opportunity to find ways to better care for their patients. They might also want to take the time to listen to common patient complaints.

    Some of these include:

    • Noisy nurses stations that can interfere with sleep.
    • Losing personal belongings.
    • Not communicating clearly with them or their family.
    • Not knocking on the door before entering their hospital room.

    Unfortunately, there are many patients with chronic illnesses. These patients may need to see the doctor more often. They might also have to endure many hospital stays. These patients might also need very specialized care. While it’s important to recognize the needs of all patients, those with dire diagnoses should always be treated with extra kindness and compassion.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #National Patient Recognition Week

    Many healthcare providers hold events that focus on improving care for their patients. This is a great time for those who work in healthcare to reflect on how well they care for their patients. They might also want to come up with ways they can do their job better. Healthcare workers can do this in the following ways:

    • Take more time with each patient.
    • Listen better to the patient’s needs.
    • Become an advocate for their patients.
    • Make their patients smile.
    • Commit to going the extra mile for their patients.
    • Urge patients of chronic illness to share their stories with others.

    Be sure to share this day on social media with #NationalPatientRecognitionWeek

    NATIONAL PATIENT RECOGNITION WEEK HISTORY

    This week was established in 1995 by John O’Malley, a healthcare worker. O’Malley felt it was important that a week be dedicated to the many patients’ healthcare workers look after each day.