By Elle Wood

DOVER — National Nurses Week is May 6-12, and Independence Blue Cross wants to recognize those in the profession in Delaware, Pennsylvania and New Jersey with the sixth annual “Celebrate Caring” awards program.

Nominations are being taken now for Sunshine Awards, which aim to highlight extraordinary work that nurses do to care for others.

The prize is named for the late Paula Sunshine, who worked as an executive for the company.

“Paula believed that nurses deserve our appreciation and gratitude, and Independence is proud to continue her legacy of recognizing and rewarding nurses for everything they do,” said Koleen Cavanaugh, senior vice president and chief marketing officer for Independence Blue Cross.

“The award will be presented to three nurses in July for their commitment to delivering compassionate care, dedication to community and innovation within their workplace.”

Independence Blue Cross wants to highlight the importance of the work nurses do to bring care to the patients they serve daily.

Each year, Ms. Cavanaugh said she hears inspiring stories from all the nominees.

“Through the years, we have received thousands of nominations for selfless nurses in a variety of health care settings (who are) making an impact for their patients and communities,” she added. “(Independence Blue Cross) has highlighted nearly 60 nurses through Celebrate Caring storytelling and celebrations.”

To be nominated for the Sunshine Award, a nurse must work in Delaware, Pennsylvania or New Jersey. They can be a part of any medical specialty.

Three winners will receive $500 gift cards and celebratory events, plus Independence will make $2,500 donations to nonprofits of their choice.

Nominations will be accepted until May 12.

To learn more and to nominate a nurse, visit ibx.com/nurses.