Virginia Beach, Va. – Sharon Neece describes herself as a no-nonsense nurse with one goal. “I’m here to comfort, help, and heal,” said the sixty-year-old nurse who works in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Riverside Regional Medical Center in Newport News. 

Neece has gone on more than 40 medial missions in dozens of countries with Operation Smile. “This is my calling – to help nurse kids back to health,” she added. During National Nurses Week, May 6-12, Neece says her commitment to giving back and embodying this year’s theme, Nursing: The Balance of Mind, Body and Spirit, is renewed. “I feel more empowered to give more and do more, said Neece. It’s a commitment I plan on sticking with for many more years,” she added. 

As a medical volunteer Neece has donated her professional skills and hundreds of hours to help patients in low and middle income countries, “It’s satisfying on a human, professional and personal level. As medical volunteers – we give people the chance to lead a healthy and happy life. During this week, National Nurses Week, I think it’s important for me to share this message and encourage others to do the same,” said Neece.