Nurses are more than just the helpers to the doctor or calloused machines that should be taken for granted, they are the backbone to the health and wellness industry — and we have a week to show that.

In 1982, President Ronald Regan proclaimed May 6 national recognition day for nurses all across the United States. Since then, as their roles and job hours have continued to expand, so too has the recognition these essential workers deserve, as they now receive a full week of acknowledgement — from May 6-12.

Athens boasts numerous nursing homes, care centers and hospitals, and nurses are integral to each of these.

Aleshia Teeples, director of nursing at the Limestone Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, talked to The News Courier about the importance this week has on nurses across the country.

“It is a great event for us to know just how appreciated we are in each and every community,” Teeples said. “Nurses do a lot that the public doesn’t always see, and that can take a toll on someone, so this week is perfect for us to really feel the impact of what we do for people.”

Teeples continued with her sentiment of the week, talking about some of the ways nurses’ roles change to provide adequate care to their senior citizens.

“A lot of times our patients are alone, and don’t really have anyone to talk to or connect with on a daily basis,” Teeples said. “That is when we become their friends and provide them with not just physical support, but emotional support as well.”

Edie Belue, a social worker at the Limestone Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, also noted the love that she has received this week from patients and the community has been overwhelming.

“I really do enjoy our patients’ company,” Belue said. “We thoroughly enjoy our jobs, I don’t think we’d be doing it if we didn’t, but to know that all our work doesn’t fall on deaf ears has been more than wonderful.”