International nurses day – celebrating the heart of care

Each year on 12 May, we mark International Nurses Day to honour the critical role that nurses play in supporting patients and strengthening health systems around the world. This year’s theme, “Our Nurses. Our Future. The economic power of care” highlights the profound value of investing in nursing to build healthier societies.

At the World Bladder Cancer Patient Coalition, we know firsthand that nurses are essential partners in the journey of people living with bladder cancer. From the first signs of symptoms to diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship, nurses provide more than medical care, they offer empathy, guidance, and reassurance when it is needed most.

Bladder cancer can be a challenging diagnosis. Our Global Patient and Carer Survey found that:

• 87% of patients said they received enough support from nurses and other healthcare providers.
• 81% said they received enough support from their doctors.
• 66% completely understood their diagnosis when it was explained to them.

This shows the important role nurses play not only in clinical care but in providing emotional strength and practical support when it matters most.

Nurses help make a difference by:

• Listening to patients’ concerns and addressing emotional needs at every stage.
• Explaining complex medical information clearly and compassionately.
• Advocating for early diagnosis and timely access to appropriate care.
• Supporting recovery and helping patients adjust to life after treatment.

This International Nurses Day, we celebrate the nurses who stand by bladder cancer patients every day, often being the constant thread that connects medical care to humanity.

Investing in nurses means building a future where every person diagnosed with bladder cancer is seen, heard, and supported.

Learn more about how to have empowered conversations with your care team:
Explore our new factsheet – Key Questions to Ask Your Doctor or Nurse