Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN) has released a first-of-its-kind documentary honoring its nurses by sharing stories about their heroic work throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

The documentary, “The Strength to Heal,” is a testament to nurses across the United States.

“I believe that the foundation of great medical care is nursing, and LVHN’s nurses are among the best you will find. During the challenging initial years of the pandemic, the community turned to LVHN and its nurses not just for stability and care, but for compassion and emotional support,” said Brian A. Nester, DO, MBA, President and Chief Executive Officer of LVHN.

“The strength, resiliency and commitment to patients in the face of uncertainty demonstrated by our nurses are nothing short of heroic, and we’re thrilled to showcase that dedication and strength of character in this documentary,” Nester said.

From brightening birthdays spent in the hospital with COVID, to bringing loved ones together when difficult goodbyes were made, many virtually, the nurses provided compassionate and personalized support. Their commitment shone through even as they were facing their own challenges, such as isolating from friends and family so they could continue reporting to the front-lines to care for others or facing fears of bringing COVID home to their own children.

Nichole Persing, Director of Patient Care Services, Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Lehigh Valley Hospital - Hecktown Oaks, likened navigating the challenging time to the athletic endurance training she completed to compete in multiple Ironman competitions.

“The nursing profession has been irrevocably altered by the pandemic,” Nester said.

“This documentary provides an opportunity to pause and reflect on our shared experiences and find meaning in what we will carry forward,” said Nester.