Category: Medical

  • NATIONAL PATCH DAY | June 24

    NATIONAL PATCH DAY

    June 24th is National Patch Day, and we encourage everyone to send a token of love to a child in need of support, kindness, and healing in the form of a patch. Today, let us wrap our arms around any child who is struggling with disease, mental illness, the loss of a loved one, or simply going through a difficult time.

    #NATIONALPATCHDAY

    Children and teens face enormous pressure in the world today. According to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, “36.7% of adolescents between the ages of 12-17 have reported persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness.” When physical and mental health challenges compound these pressures, things can quickly start to feel overwhelming for kids. Unsurprisingly, it can be hard to know what we can do to help a child experiencing sickness, grief, or other challenges. Luckily, National Patch Day encourages everyone to show support for kids (and their families) as they navigate through their varied journeys.

    Phone calls, emails, or text messages can fall short during the challenges of everyday life, as well as during family struggles or illnesses. However, receiving an unexpected gift in the mail can work magic. Imagine a child opening their mailbox to find a surprise package from a loved one just for them. In fact, sending physical mail is a powerful way to let a young person know you care, especially in our increasingly digital world. A tangible token of love can alleviate loneliness and foster a sense of true support. Reaching out through the mail reinforces connections in a busy world and reminds our loved ones they are not alone on their journey.

    The Oliver Patch Project

    According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), about 47 children are diagnosed with cancer in the US each day. Although childhood cancer is considered rare in comparison to adult diagnosis, it is still the leading cause of death from disease in children under 20 years old. These unfortunate statistics provided inspiration for the inception of the Oliver Patch Project.

    The Oliver Patch Project patches are so much more than pieces of material. Our patches reinforce hope, mend loneliness, and repair self doubt. Our patches represent support, compassion, and strength. Our patches are tokens of love, and are the symbols of our Warriors.” 

    Brian and Trisha, Oliver’s parents 

    In May 2020, nine-year-old Oliver Burkhardt was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. In the immediate aftermath of Oliver’s diagnosis, family and friends reached out to his parents asking how they could help show Oliver love and support. The Burkhardt’s came up with a simple idea to help Oliver keep a positive attitude. They asked people to send Oliver patches in the mail. Each patch Oliver received was sewn onto the jean jacket he wore to and from hospital visits as a reminder of all the people who were rooting for him.

    Oliver’s jacket became his suit of armor. It made him feel strong and loved while fighting his battle, and he wore it like a warrior with pride. Oliver’s parents saw the positive impact these little gifts of love had on Oliver, and they decided to bring that same positivity to other kids with cancer by creating the Oliver Patch Project (OPP). National Patch Day is an extension of the Oliver Patch Project that wraps its arms around any child who is struggling with disease, mental illness, the loss of a loved one, or simply going through a difficult time.

    Marking Milestones

    The Oliver Patch Project’s mission is to create free, fun, and engaging patches for children with childhood cancers. Together with artists and designers, the children and their families create a series of unique patches meant to empower and lift their child up. Each child becomes a warrior during their journey, showing their patches off as they reach significant milestones. Like knights preparing for battle, the Oliver Patch Project Warriors suit up in their warrior jacket “armor” and earn Milestone Patches for each medical milestone treatment they complete along their cancer journey.

    By definition, a milestone is a significant event in the development of a person. For childhood cancer patients, milestones symbolize progress when challenges are overcome. Their bravery is worthy of celebration. The Oliver Patch Project acknowledges those milestones with patches of the thirteen bravest and strongest animals on earth. These animals represent the 13 major medical milestones a child will face on their cancer journey. All animals represent strength, bravery, and resilience.

    Why is The Oliver Patch Project so special?

    • The Oliver Patch Project is about community support. That support is a critical part of wellness, especially during and after a traumatic illness.
    • The project builds rapport and connection between the child and their medical team. This bond helps children get through challenging and uncomfortable procedures.
    • The patches provide children with cancer validation of being seen and recognized for their efforts and valor during their healing process.
    • All achievement badges (patches) are a familiar symbol for children and provide acknowledgement for real life experiences. The patches remind them they are heroes.
    • Warriors may not know how to share their experiences with others or know what to say about their diagnosis, treatment, or recovery. Their patches allow them to talk about their journey in a positive way.
    • Earning and collecting patches is a family endeavor that has benefits for parents and guardians. Seeing their child be positive about their patches helps loved ones feel positive too.

    6 WAYS TO SUPPORT THE OLIVER PATCH PROJECT

    1. Volunteer for the Oliver Patch Project Warriors as a designer, artist, writer, tech support, or social media whiz. Visit I Want To Volunteer to learn more.
    2. Send your favorite patch to the Oliver Patch Project and they will share it with one of their Warriors. Reach out to the Oliver Patch Project to Learn More about getting started.
    3. Let a loved one know you care by sending them a patch. Click the Send A Patch link to send a patch to your loved one.
    4. Create a patch design for a child battling cancer. If you have a design you would love to share, you can Design A Patch here.
    5. Donate time or give a monetary donation to the Oliver Patch Project.
    6. Spread awareness by sharing the positive impact of the Oliver Patch Project. Share you and your family’s story using #NationalPatchDay on social media.

    FOUNDER

    In February 2023, National Day Calendar welcomed the Oliver Patch Project to our Founder Family. Each year on June 24, we will celebrate National Patch Day as a day empower kids with cancer to find their inner warrior. We also encourage everyone to send a token of love to someone in need of support, kindness, and healing.

    About

    The Burkhardt Family, Brian, Trisha, Oliver, and Peter, took an impossible situation, a cancer diagnosis, and turned it into something positive. They received love in the form of patches, and now each day they are paying it forward to other families whose children are in treatment for cancer through the Oliver Patch Project. The impact of receiving patches from loved ones and strangers changed their lives for the better. 

    The Burkhardt Family

    The Burkhardt family is grateful to report that as of July 13, 2022, Oliver is in remission and living his best life. The legacy of his patch project has grown into a thriving non-profit organization that brings joy and hope to children with pediatric cancers all over the U.S.

    Visit the Oliver Patch Project to learn more about the organization and the services it provides.

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  • CHRONIC DISEASE DAY | July 10

    CHRONIC DISEASE DAY | July 10

    On 7/10 we spread awareness on Chronic Disease Day to educate and advocate for people who live with a chronic health conditions every day.

    #ChronicDiseaseDay

    A chronic disease is a condition that lasts longer than one year. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, chronic disease is one of the leading causes of death in the United States. Seven out of 10 people suffer from a form of chronic disease.

    What are a few common chronic diseases?

    • ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease)
    • Alzheimer’s
    • Cancer
    • Crohn’s Disease
    • Diabetes
    • Heart Disease

    Prevention

    Many, but not all, chronic diseases can be prevented simply by practicing self-care. Improving and practicing a healthy lifestyle can likely reduce getting a chronic disease.

    What can I do to prevent getting a chronic disease?

    • Eat a healthy diet. Eating the proper amount of fruits, veggies, grains, dairy and protein plays a significant role in maintaining a healthy weight. Limiting sugar and starch intake prevents obesity, diabetes, heart disease and cancer.
    • Exercise. Increasing physical activity not only promotes physical health, it also helps balance mental health.
    • Routine medical check-ups. Visiting your doctor regularly is important when maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Early detection to address medical problems and finding a plan of action.
    • Know your family medical history. Having a complete medical history of your family will help your doctor determine possible health problems you may develop. It also gives a good reminder for you to pay special attention to medical problems that are hereditary.
    • Rest. Getting adequate rest is a factor in how your body reacts to “life.” Stress, depression and anxiety cause serious health problems, too.

    Cost of Chronic Disease

    Economically, chronic diseases have a significant impact financially in the United States. We all absorb the financial burden of chronic disease directly or indirectly. Health insurance and medical programs, such as Medicaid and Medicare, are supported by tax dollars. Private health insurance costs for enrollees consumes more dollars in one family than any other health condition. Because people with chronic disease illnesses live long lives, the cost to treat these illnesses becomes extremely expensive over the years.

    Why does chronic disease cost so much?

    • Patients require long-term treatment plans.
    • People who suffer from chronic disease wait until “it’s too late” to seek proper care.
    • Personal health insurance lack policy guidelines to cover some chronic disease.
    • Lack of education to prevent chronic disease is available.
    • Preventative measures are not addressed by health care providers, leading to patients unable to address pre-existing based on medical history.

    GET INVOLVED

    • Support Chronic Disease Day by taking the pledge to live your best, healthiest life.
    • Volunteer to help someone who suffers from chronic disease.
    • Schedule a complete physical to address any health issues that might lead to long-term chronic disease.
    • Become an advocate of chronic disease
    • Host a fundraiser for a local agency and raise money to alleviate costs for patients.
    • Educate yourself on the different types of chronic diseases that affect people.
    • Share #ChronicDiseaseDay on social media to spread awareness.

    HISTORY OF CHRONIC DISEASE DAY

    Today’s observance is an awareness campaign promoted by the organization 7.10 Chronic Disease Day Using people’s stories and voices, the organization advocates to build healthier lifestyles in communities by lowering preventable illness. In addition, they assist in the advancement for unpreventable chronic disease conditions.

    National Day Calendar added Chronic Disease Day to the calendar on July 1, 2022. A Superfan reached out to us letting us know the existence of the day. After doing research, we decided it would be a good addition to our calendar. Thank you T. Marshall at Good Days for helping National Day Calendar #CelebrateEveryDay.

  • NATIONAL DIMPLES DAY | July 9

    NATIONAL DIMPLES DAY | July 9

    On July 9 we admire those who have an adorable natural indentation known as the dimple on National Dimples Day.

    #NationalDimplesDay

    Dimples are often associated with cute babies and good looking adults. Only 20-30% of the entire world population has dimples. Although most people possess two dimples, a rare few produce only one when smiling.

    Dimples are considered a genetic trait. Normally, if one person in a family has dimples, it’s likely another family member will. Some scientists believe we inherit dimples. However, other scientists believe dimples are a random trait people have. Until more research is available, no one knows which genes produce dimples. In fact, there is very little scientific research available to make a determination.

    Facial Dimple Types

    • Dimple on both cheeks.
    • Chin dimple or cleft chin.
    • One-sided cheek dimple.
    • Corner of mouth dimple.

    How do dimples form? Dimples are formed by the zygomaticus major muscle, which is the muscle that controls facial expressions. The zygomaticus major muscle connects to the zygomatic bone, which is commonly known as the cheekbone. Most people have a single zygomaticus muscle attached to the cheekbone. However, people with dimples possess two zygomaticus muscles. One muscle connects to the cheek bone, while the other connects to the corner of the mouth.

    Those born with dimples, or develop dimples later in life, may have been told their dimples are a birth defect. However, there is no scientific information saying dimples have a negative effect on health. In fact, people with dimples have a positive effect on how society views the lucky faces that have dimples.

    Are dimples considered attractive? Dimples are, in fact, associated with beauty. Many people believe people with dimples look younger. People with dimples seem to be more noticeable, especially when they smile. Whether or not dimples determine success, we know there are several contemporary famous people whose dimples make them stand out.

    • Gabrielle Union-Wade
    • Mario Lopez
    • Matthew McConaughey
    • Michael B. Jordan
    • Jennifer Garner
    • Judy Garland
    • Sophia Bush
    • Kirsten Dunst
    • Deepika Padukone
    • Shin Min-a

    What are back dimples? Some people are born with back dimples, which are indentations on your lower back. People who have back dimples are born with them. This congenial feature is a result of shorter ligament tissue that connect the skin and pelvis. Although it may sound like a medical condition, back dimples are part of a healthy body structure.

    Beauty of the Gods

    Women who have back dimples are sometimes referred to as “dimples of Venus.” According to Greek Mythology, Venus is known as the Roman goddess of love and beauty. Since her beauty relates to love and desire, it’s evident why people today refer to back dimples as dimples of Venus.

    Although back dimples are more common in women, men also have dimples on their back. Men with back dimples refer to them as “dimples of Apollo.” References say Apollo was the God of Light, whose primary job was to pull the sun across the sky in his chariot. As the son of Zeus, he was admired for his knowledge in medicine, art, poetry and music.

    Weird Dimple Facts

    • Gelasin is the term referring to when dimples form when a person smiles.
    • Dimples are a result of a genetic deformity.
    • Chinese culture believe dimples are a sign of good luck.
    • The appearance of dimples depends on the shape of the skull.
    • Isabella Gilbert invented a non-surgical dimple creating device in 1936.

    The Dimple Maker
    Medford Mail Tribune (November 22, 1936)

    The Dimple Maker

    In 1936, Isabella Gilbert made her introduction to the world with an invention that supposedly created dimples. After creating a prototype, she submitted her application for a patent to market her product. Patent application number US104345A was filed on October 6, 1936 and granted on August 31, 1937. It took 17 years for the US Patent office to publish the Dimple Maker invention as US2091276A. Unfortunately, the patent expired after the American Medical Association said the device was hazardous to a person’s health.

    Dimple Maker Instructions

    “Wear dimplers five minutes at a time, two or three times a day, while dressing, resting, reading or writing. Look into the mirror and laugh. There will be a semblance of a line where you should always place the dimplers until your dimples are made.”

    SMILE

    • Anything that makes you feel happy will make you smile.
    • Laugh throughout the day.
    • Create fake dimples using a method found at  L’Oréal Paris USA.
    • Share photos of you or someone you know who has dimples.

    FOUNDER OF NATIONAL DIMPLES DAY

    Cultures throughout the world consider back dimples a sign of beauty. Ancient Chinese culture often refer to back dimples in calligraphy writing. Interestingly, they also compare them to pits of wine.

    In 2022, National Day Calendar welcomed National Dimples Day to our list new days. Each year on July 9 people across the world can celebrate their smile and show off their dimples! Founder and Chief Dimples Officer Graceful Grady believes celebrating dimples is a way to inspire people to be proud of their unique features.

    National Dimples Day is about celebrating the rarity of dimples. ~Graceful Grady, Founder

    Graceful Grady would like to invite everyone to nationaldimplesday.com and vote for your favorite dimple. While you’re there, check out their fun National Dimples Day products.

  • WORLD CARING DAY | June 7

    WORLD CARING DAY | June 7

    Each year on June 7, World Caring Day shines a spotlight on all the ways we connect and show each other we care. Afterall, we should always take time to celebrate the millions of acts of caring we see. All acts of caring, whether big or small, are important. Caring is continuous and happens every day through compassion, support, kindness and understanding.

    #WorldCaringDay

    In a world of many worries, one of the easiest ways to show love is by caring. We all experience times of crisis, illness or need. Sharing our journeys and becoming a part of a beautiful story in a segmented, cynical world recognizes and celebrates the people who care. When we take the time to notice, we see patience, understanding, kindness and encouragement from everyone around us.

    Use World Caring Day to remind others to take the opportunity and practice caring. Now more than ever, we need to lean into caring for one another. Using this day as an opportunity to share your compassion shows genuine love and is a blessing. By sincerely asking how someone’s day went, it shows that you care, and can improve that person’s overall well-being.

    Caring Around the World

    Celebrating everyone as they share stories of caring recognizes and honors both those who care, and those who are cared for. On June 7th, we encourage everyone to rededicate themselves to recognizing, sharing and participating in acts of caring by:

    • Asking how someone is doing with intent and meaning. Asking someone how they are to find out what is going on in their lives shows you care.
    • Being mindful of the needs of others. Being alert and sensitive to what triggers your loved ones can help them navigate the shifts in their mood.
    • Reconnecting online to catch up with your friends and family living far away or with those you haven’t spoken to in a long time reopens relationships.
    • Making time for your loved ones. We know everyone gets busy but don’t become a stranger to your friends and family.
    • Writing a note. You’ll be surprised by how big of an impact little notes of encouragement can have on the mood and well-being of others.
    • Sharing your story! Head over to www.worldcaringday.org and share your story of caring for a loved one through a challenging health journey. You can also read stories of others to feel inspired.
    • Joining the conversation by spreading the word. Sharing acts of kindness will boost the World Caring Day, especially when you use #WorldCaringDay on social media.

    HISTORY OF WORLD CARING DAY

    Inspiration for World Caring Day began on June 7, 1997, with the nine-day life of a baby named Brighid. After being born prematurely, software engineer Sona Mehring created the first CaringBridge website. Thanks to Sona, friends and family were able to receive updates on baby Brighid’s health online. Most importantly, the website provided necessities and comfort to Brighid and her family. Since social media platforms were non-existent at the time, the idea to create a website was revolutionary.

    This simple act of caring triggered a domino effect, resulting in a global network known as CaringBridge. The non-profit organization is dedicated to connecting family and friends with their loved ones during a health journey. The organization helps to provide care, comfort and unwavering support to families. In 2021, an estimated 45 million people from all around the world visited CaringBridge. Over 1,900 messages of hope, care and love are posted every hour on the CaringBridge portals for loved ones.

    In 2022, the Register at National Day Calendar officially proclaimed World Caring Day to be observed on June 7, annually. CaringBridge and National Day Calendar invites everyone to inspire others through stories of hope and care. Celebrate today by recognizing and thanking those who go the extra mile to show they care. You can read inspirational stories, including baby Brighid’s, by visiting www.worldcaringday.org.

    There are over 1,500 national days. Don’t miss a single one. Celebrate Every Day® with National Day Calendar®!

  • NATIONAL FIRST RESPONDERS DAY – October 28

    National First Responders Day | October 28
    National First Responders Day | October 28

    NATIONAL FIRST RESPONDERS DAY

    October 28th sets aside National First Responders Day to honor the men and women who act quickly when an emergency is at hand.

    #NationalFirstRespondersDay

    First responders dedicate their lives to save lives. They are the people who run toward a crisis while the rest of the world flees. According to the Department of Homeland Security, 4.6 million career and volunteer first responders support the communities where they live. They are firefighters, police, emergency medical technicians (EMT), paramedics, and 911 operators. In an emergency, they’re the first on the scene. These dedicated professionals answer the call when a crisis arises, often putting their own lives on the line.

    Serving as a national day of gratitude, we pay tribute to their endless hours and around the clock service provided to their communities. As one of the most dangerous jobs in the country, the day also pays tribute to the fallen first responders. According to the CDC, 97 firefighters and 155 police officers die each year in the line of duty. Additionally, their rate of occupational injury is higher than the national average. Often, the very people saving lives are our neighbors, friends and family members. And their families know the price they pay for their dedication to the job. 

    And even though they are an integral part of our communities, their sacrifices go beyond the hours they work. They face high stress, often daily. The trauma they see wears on them both mentally and physically. Many experience Post Traumatic Stress. Long periods away from family add stress to their relationships, too.

    National First Responders Day is also a call for action. First responders deserve our support. Through resources and awareness, first responders can live healthier more productive lives and pass their knowledge and skills on to the next generation of first responders, too.

    HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL FIRST RESPONDERS DAY

    The day provides you with an opportunity to recognize a first responder in your life. You might be surprised at how many you know. If their service is voluntary, you may only know about their day job. Offer to treat them to their favorite beverage or buy their next meal. Be supportive of their family, too. More importantly, support programs that improve services to first responders. Connect with a first responder who came to your rescue and thank them. Let them know you appreciate their dedication and sacrifice.

    Share your appreciation on social media using #NationalFirstRespondersDay.

    NATIONAL FIRST RESPONDERS DAY HISTORY

    In 2019, the United States Senate passed a resolution designating October 28th as National First Responders Day to honor the men and women putting their lives on the line. Additionally, many states have proclaimed October 28th as National First Responders Day and others recognize the observance on different dates throughout the year. 

     

     

  • NATIONAL PHARMACY WEEK – Third Full Week in October

    NATIONAL PHARMACY WEEK

    Held during the third full week in October, National Pharmacy Week acknowledges the invaluable contributions pharmacists and technicians make to patient care.

    Did you know that one out of every two Americans take a least one prescription drug? With so many Americans taking prescription drugs, pharmacists play a more vital role than ever in our health care system. Not only do pharmacists provide medicine, but they also provide important information to patients. They need to know everything there is about the prescriptions they fill. This includes knowing how medications interact with one another.

    Along with dispensing medication, pharmacists work as researchers, educators, advocates, and counselors. Some pharmacists also give immunizations. They even help patients with weight management and smoking cessation. Additionally, pharmacists often work with insurance companies to ensure their patient’s medications are covered by their health insurance plan. National Pharmacy Week recognizes all these contributions and more!

    It’s clear that pharmacists have a direct impact on their patient’s health. No wonder pharmacists love their jobs! Here are some more reasons pharmacists enjoy their work:

    • They get to work directly with patients.
    • Pharmacists have job mobility, stability, and flexibility.
    • State-of-the-art technology gives pharmacists an advantage.
    • They are highly respected members of the community.

    Pharmacists don’t just work behind the counter. Some of them work in hospitals, nursing homes, and managed care organizations.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalPharmacyWeek

    During the week many pharmacies provide pharmacy tours and open houses. These events allow the public, as well as other healthcare workers, to get a glimpse into the daily operations of the pharmacy. These events also provide a chance for pharmacists to share success stories about improved patient outcomes. Some pharmacies also host meet and greets so that patients and caregivers can ask questions. Other events include brown-bag workshops, health fairs, and presentations.

    To participate, give your pharmacy or favorite pharmacist a shout out on social media this week with #NationalPharmacyWeek.

    NATIONAL PHARMACY WEEK HISTORY

    Robert J. Ruth, a pharmacist from Ashville, North Carolina proposed the idea of a National Pharmaceutical Week in 1924. He made the proposal during the annual meeting of the American Pharmacist Association (APhA). The first event was held October 11-17, 1925. The name of the week was eventually changed to National Pharmacy Week. Years later, in 2004, the APhA would declare the entire month of October as American Pharmacists Month.

     

  • EMERGENCY NURSES WEEK – Week of Emergency Nurses Day in October

    EMERGENCY NURSES WEEK

    Emergency Nurses Week recognizes the unique value of emergency, ER, or trauma nurses. It always takes place the week surrounding Emergency Nurses Day, the second Wednesday in October each year.

    These professionals focus on the immediate care of patients who require medical attention to avoid long-term disability or death. It is a complex role, treating the trigger event for the emergency visit as well as communicating with the patient, the families, and the care team.

    This front line position is very people-centered, not only physically but emotionally too. People in emergency situations often feel distraught and upset. So, the emergency nurse must treat the emotions as well as the emergency medical issue. It can be chaotic, especially if the cause of the visit is a violent incident.

    Emergency nurses are in demand. Not only is because there a growing demand for emergency health care, but also, there is a high turnover rate for emergency nurses. That’s why the latest employment trend in the field is for traveling, ER, or trauma nurse. They work for a traveling nursing agency that sends them around the country to live and work in a critical need area. A quick search on the Internet shows 17,000 openings for traveling emergency or trauma nurse.

    HOW TO OBSERVE EMERGENCY NURSES WEEK 

    The week honors nurses who are often highly stressed by the chaotic and rushed environment in which they work.

    • Write a thank you note to an emergency nurse or emergency nursing department that has helped you.
    • Use #emergencynursingweek, #ENWeek, or,#YouMakeADifference
    • Follow the exciting posts of Emergency Nursing on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/emergencynursing
    • Follow Emergency Nursing Association on Twitter @ENAorg
    • Read what it’s like to experience a day in the life of an emergency room nurse https://dailynurse.com/day-life-emergency-room-nurse/
    • Invite an Emergency Nurse to speak to your power lunch, brown bag lunch, or service club.
    • Look for then sign up with your local hospital or clinic’s emergency nursing department to participate in an injury prevention presentation.
    • Host an injury prevention program with your local emergency nursing staff in your community.

    NATIONAL EMERGENCY WEEK HISTORY

    • 1989, the organization Emergency Nursing Association (ENA) has recognized the second Wednesday in October as Emergency Nurses Day.
    • 2001, ENA expanded the celebration to devote an entire week to honoring emergency nurses.

    There are over 1,500 national days. Don’t miss a single one. Celebrate Every Day® with National Day Calendar®!

  • NATIONAL NEONATAL INTENSIVE CARE AWARENESS MONTH – September

    NATIONAL NEONATAL INTENSIVE CARE AWARENESS MONTH

    National Neonatal Intensive Care Awareness Month seeks to increase awareness of the challenges faced in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). The day also offers a way help expand resources to NICUs across the country.

    When a baby is born prematurely or is sick upon delivery, they most likely need to spend time in the NICU. In the NICU, trained nurses provide around-the-clock care to premature or sick babies. Doctors who work with these babies are called neonatologists. Up to 15 percent of all babies born in the United States will require care in the NICU. Their average length of stay is just over 13 days. Babies born very prematurely, some weighing only ounces upon birth, can expect to stay in the NICU for several weeks.

    The first NICUs in the United States came into existence in 1922. However, it wasn’t until many years later the care for these tiny and sickly babies greatly improved. Beginning in the 1950s, doctors began to realize that heat, humidity, and a steady supply of oxygen could improve a premature baby’s survival rates.

    The survival rates continued to improve further when studies showed the importance of parent involvement. NICU nurses began encouraging parents to take a more active role in caring for their babies in the NICU.

    This included having the parents change their baby’s diaper, feed them, and bathe them. Another way parents take an active role is through skin-to-skin contact with their baby. Skin-to-skin contact is called Kangaroo Care and is known to stabilize a baby’s heart rate, improve their oxygen saturation levels, and improve sleep.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalNICAMonth

    If you know parents who have a baby in the NICU, offer them a word of encouragement. Show your support in other ways, too. Get involved in a fundraiser for your local NICU or take a NICU nurse out for lunch. This is also a great month to donate blankets, preemie clothes, and booties to a NICU. If your baby was premature, share your experiences. Use #NationalNeonatalIntensiveAwarenessMonth to share on social media.

    NATIONAL NEONATAL INTENSIVE CARE AWARENESS MONTH HISTORY

    Project Sweet Peas established National Neonatal Intensive Care Awareness Month in 2014. Volunteers with personal experience with the NICU comprise Project Sweet Peas and provide support for families of premature and sick babies.

     

  • NATIONAL INTERNAL MEDICINE DAY| October 28

    NATIONAL INTERNAL MEDICINE DAY | October 28

    National Internal Medicine Day recognizes the impact of approximately 300,000 Internal Medicine Physicians on October 28.

    #NationalInternalMedicineDay

    Internal Medicine Physicians, also known as internists, are the cornerstone of comprehensive health care. They are experts in complexity who see every connection in the adult human body. They serve, and lead, in a variety of settings. Their expertise is vital to patients, medical professionals, and health care.

    What do Internal Medicine Physicians do? Internal Medicine Physicians specialize in adult medicine. They are specially trained to solve diagnostic problems, manage severe long-term illnesses, and help patients with multiple, complex chronic conditions. They see the big picture, and their deep training and knowledge give them a unique perspective of how everything works in unison. They provide comprehensive, longitudinal patient care and have life-long relationships with adult patients. Often, other medical professionals call upon Internal Medicine Physicians for their ability to connect the dots, help solve problems, and identify solutions.

    Some Internal Medicine Physicians also pursue additional training to subspecialize in a specific area of internal medicine. This specialized training includes:

    • Cardiology
    • Endocrinology
    • Gastroenterology
    • Rheumatology
    • Infectious disease

    Internal Medicine Physicians serve and lead in a variety of settings, such as private practices, clinics, hospitals, and health systems. Conducting research, teaching in medical schools and residency programs are a few areas internists offer their expertise. They also hold leadership positions in business, technology, and government settings.

    Significant Contributions

    As the foundation of clinical care, Internal Medicine Physicians have made significant contributions to the health care industry, both in public and private sectors. Some notable contributions include:

    • Noble prize winners for groundbreaking research in dialysis, genetics and cardiac factors, and peptic ulcer disease.
    • Groundbreaking HIV/AIDS research.
    • Development of innovations in treating chronic illness.
    • Leaders in infectious disease prevention, diagnosis and treatment.

    INTERNAL MEDICINE CELEBRATION

    • Visit the  American College of Physicians (ACP) website to learn more about internal medicine and Internal Medicine Physicians.
    • Explore printable and shareable social media content on ACP’s National Internal Medicine Day webpage.
    • Celebrate and share why you are proud to be an Internal Medicine Physician.
    • Tell the world why you are vital to patients, medical professionals, and the health care system.
    • Share and comment on social media about the impact you are making and use #NationalInternalMedicineDay, #IMProud and #IMPhysician while posting.

    HISTORY OF NATIONAL INTERNAL MEDICINE DAY 

    NIMD Logo

    National Internal Medicine Day was established in 2019 by the National Day Calendar and the American College of Physicians (ACP) to recognize the contributions of internal medicine physicians who are united by a commitment to excellence around the globe. Representing approximately 160,000 Internal Medicine Physicians, the ACP consists of internal medicine specialists, subspecialists, and medical students. In fact, the organization is the largest medical-specialty society in the world, and its mission is to enhance the quality and effectiveness of health care by fostering excellence and professionalism in the practice of medicine.

    About American College of Physicians

    Founded in 1915, the ACP promotes the science and practice of medicine. Since its founding, the ACP supports Internal Medicine Physicians in their quest for excellence and shares the most updated medical knowledge. In addition, it also offers top-notch educational resources, practice resources, and demonstrates their commitment to internal medicine and those who practice it. The physicians of ACP lead the profession in education. Through a standard-setting, they share knowledge to advance the science and practice of internal medicine.

  • NATIONAL SURGICAL ONCOLOGIST DAY – August 22

    NATIONAL SURGICAL ONCOLOGIST DAY | AUGUST 22

    National Surgical Oncologist Day recognizes the accomplishments of every lifesaving surgeon who specializes in abolishing cancer!

    #SurgicalOncologistDay

    Surgical oncologists help to both diagnose cancer and cure it through surgery. They may perform a needle biopsy to take a sample or perform surgery to remove all or parts of the cancerous tissue. At the same time, they work with a team of experts to provide you with the best possible care available.

    Surgical oncologists also strive to learn more and better understand the variety of cancers we face daily. As experts in their field, they continuously seek improvements in care for their patients. From cutting edge techniques to the latest in research and therapies, surgical oncologists push toward a cure every day. Their dedication and leadership in the field of oncology make a difference in the lives of cancer patients today and tomorrow.

    HOW TO OBSERVE SURGICAL ONCOLOGIST DAY

    Donate to your favorite cancer charity such as Lean On Me Breast Cancer Network. Show appreciation to your favorite surgical oncologist. Let them know what made a difference in your care. Share successful and compassionate surgical oncology stories using #SurgicalOncologistDay, #SurgicalOncologist on social media.

    NATIONAL SURGICAL ONCOLOGIST DAY HISTORY

    Lean on Me Breast Cancer NetworkIn March of 2019, Jenni Cherlin & the Lean On Me Breast Cancer Network founded National Surgical Oncologist Day to recognize the hard work and dedication of surgical oncologists everywhere.

    About Dr. Dwight Carlton De Risi

    August 22nd honors Dr. Dwight Carlton De Risi. He is a world-renowned surgical oncologist with over 30 years of experience in his field. Dr. De Risi was born on August 22, 1947. He is the first trained surgical oncologist on Long Island, specializing in diseases of the breast. After growing up on Long Island, he attended Seton Hall University and received his doctorate from Georgetown University School of Medicine. Dr. De Risi completed his residency at North Shore University Hospital. He earned his graduate surgical oncology fellowship degree from Roswell Park Cancer Institute in Buffalo, NY – America’s first cancer institute and the first in the United States to be accredited by the Society of Surgical Oncology.

    A Leader in His Field

    Having treated tens of thousands of patients over the years, Dr. De Risi remained a leader in his field, introducing and popularizing cutting edge surgical and diagnostic techniques, which have now become standards of care. He has been recognized and honored for his accomplishments by several organizations, including Seton Hall Pre Medical Honor Society Alpha Epsilon Delta. The community knows Dr. De Risi to be compassionate and hold late office hours. He attributes his success to his family (which includes his wife Donna, and his four children Darren, Drew, Dara, and Deirdre), his incredible office staff, and the love and support from his dedicated patients.

    Through the efforts of his loyal supporters, Dr. De Risi created the non-profit support group called Lean On Me Breast Cancer Networks Inc. Since May of 2000, over seventy volunteers have helped guide and comfort several thousand newly diagnosed breast cancer patients. These volunteers provide a vital to a patient’s journey from diagnosis and treatment to wellness. Additionally, the organization plans several exciting and enjoyable fundraising events throughout the year. These events help patients realize the importance of living each day to its fullest.

    The Registrar at National Day Calendar proclaimed National Surgical Oncologist Day to be observed on August 22nd annually.