Imagine our organization where our sons and daughters, new generations of nurses, have now become members. ONS recently celebrated its 35th anniversary. I often wonder if the founding members ever imagined, as they met that first time in 1975 in San Diego, just how monumental their decision would be to form ONS?
As economic challenges continue, we are mindful of the value we receive for what we pay for. When compared to most nursing organizations, ONS offers extraordinary value for the cost of membership. At only $102 annually, ONS’s member dues compare favorably to six similar nursing and oncology organizations, whose median annual dues are $134.
Many years ago, when I attended my first ONS Congress, I remember the incredible excitement I felt simply being in one place with so many extraordinary oncology nurses. I feel that way now every time I attend ONS Congress, yet upon departure, that connection begins to fade a bit. I suspect many of us have similar stories, and the question remains: how do we keep that excitement going all year round, not just at Congress?
As the Japanese poet Ryunosuke Satoro said, “Individually, we are one drop. Together, we are an ocean.” With this quote in mind, it is an opportune time to discuss the roles of ONS staff and volunteers and how the contributions of each complement and enhance each other, all working to move ONS forward.
As you celebrate Oncology Nursing Month, we encourage you to use your voice to champion the contributions you and your colleagues make within your workplace. Although this is something to do all year long, May provides the platform to demonstrate the impact of your clinical excellence, research outcomes, and leadership impact.