SR 109 (LSB 6260SS (3) 83)

SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 109

BY  JOCHUM

A Resolution celebrating the centennial anniversary of the Dubuque Visiting Nurse Association.

   WHEREAS, in 1910 typhoid fever, tuberculosis, and malaria were prevalent, there was no enforced quarantine for smallpox, diphtheria, or scarlet fever, and most babies were born at home; and
   WHEREAS, Blanche Cooke, a deaconess at St. Luke’s Church in Dubuque, resolved to do something to combat these lethal threats; and
   WHEREAS, in February 1910, her work and dedication helped create the Dubuque Visiting Nurse Association (VNA); and
   WHEREAS, the first employee of the VNA was Jessie Keys, who served as director, nurse, and secretary; and
   WHEREAS, Ms. Keys was a dynamo of ideas and activity, initiating the Dubuque school nurse program, the Open Window Room for physically handicapped children, the sale of Christmas Health Seals to fight tuberculosis, and a day camp for children; and
   WHEREAS, a century later VNA staff members travel thousands of miles throughout Dubuque County serving nursing, homemaking, and personal care clients, doing oral health screenings, and giving childhood immunizations, as well as serving patients for other VNA programs; NOW THEREFORE,

   BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE, That the Senate congratulates the Dubuque Visiting Nurse Association on its centennial anniversary and honors the countless VNA care and service providers, who for 100 years have provided care and comfort to those in need.