The Council of Active Retired Nurses has implemented this program to honor nurses for their years of dedication to nursing to be presented during the nurse’s memorial service by a nurse colleague or friend. Inspired by the original Nightingale Tribute program through the Kansas State Nurses Association.
Nursing is a calling, a way of life. Nursing is a service profession that cannot be lived in isolation. Nurses rely on each other for the synergistic effect of teamwork in or efforts of caregiving. It is appropriate that we honor our colleagues not only during their careers but also at the end of life’s journey.
Volunteers will coordinate with family of the deceased nurse to provide a tribute at the funeral/memorial service. It is recommended to have a chosen family member or nurse colleague present the tribute with guidance from one of our volunteers, but volunteers will present if there is no one available. A volunteer will coordinate with family and funeral director/clergy organizing the service according to what type of tribute is requested. Volunteers will provide all materials needed, but
family may also include personal items and special requests.
Potential options for Nightingale Tributes:
1. Full Ceremony including the lighting of a lamp/candle (display includes lamp, framed poem “She was There”, nurse’s cap, rose and scroll along with any other personal nursing items family wishes to display), a brief summary of the individual’s nursing career, special readings and the presentation of a white rose and scroll to the casket/urn or to designated family member.
2. Condensed Ceremony including above items on display, along with a single reading
3. Silent Tribute: Above items on display throughout service with no readings.
If you would like to request a tribute for your loved one, or if you are interested in becoming a volunteer, contact us here: Nightingaletribute@mnnurses.org
*We currently only have capacity to participate in tributes in the Twin Cities and southern MN areas. We would be happy to help you coordinate a tribute in your area, or if you are interested in volunteering or starting up your own chapter, please let us know! Nightingaletribute@mnnurses.org