A Triumphant Return and a Vision for the Future

Written by Carina Madriaga

The Philippine Nurses Association of Colorado (PNACO) is thrilled to have won the bid for the 47th Convention held at the 45th PNAA National Convention in California! Our delegation returned home brimming with inspiration, knowledge, and excitement.

We thank the Western Region and our fellow PNAA members for their votes, encouragement, and support. A special thank you to the Virginia chapter for the competitive spirit that ignited our determination to bring the 2026 National Convention to Colorado. We are filled with pride and excitement to host this prestigious event, a testament to our hard work and dedication.

The 2024 PNAA National Convention was a treasure trove of insights into the latest advancements in nursing, highlighting the crucial role of nurses as leaders and advocates. As Dr. Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing, famously stated, “I attribute my success to this: I never gave or took any excuse.” This enduring wisdom influences and inspires us to strive for professional excellence.

We were particularly impressed and impacted by the emphasis on the importance of political representation for nurses. Nursing is undeniably a cornerstone of healthcare, and our collective voice can significantly impact healthcare policies and outcomes. As nurse leaders, we are responsible for engaging in the political process and advocating for our patients and colleagues.

Beyond professional development, the convention offered camaraderie and cultural enrichment opportunities. Our team's creative flair shone through as we clinched the second-place prize in the regional performance with our unforgettable Barbie and Ken play and dance routine. Also, the Gala night was inspirational, filled with elegance and nursing pride.

We returned home with new knowledge and a wealth of connections. Together with our adviser, Leli Pedro, President-Elect Marilyn Doster, incoming director Jimmy Igarta, Jr., and Vice President May Joyce Vertido, we are all eager to apply what we have learned and are excited to elevate PNACO to new heights. We are ready to make a more positive impact and influence our fellow nurses and the community we work with and serve.

Together, we are committed to making a meaningful impact on the nursing profession and the Filipino-American community. As we look ahead to hosting the 2026 National Convention, we envision an event that will not only showcase the beauty and diversity of Colorado but also serve as a powerful platform for innovation and collaboration among nurses nationwide, inspiring hope for a brighter future.

Let us continue to inspire, empower, and uplift each other. Together, we can create a healthier future for all. With our PNAA President, Dr. Marlon Garazo Saria, guiding us with the mantra “i2PNAA: Impact and Influence,” we will continue to positively impact and influence our environment.

PNACO Education Night on Gout Management

PNACO Hosted a Powerful Event on Gout Management with a Delicious Italian Twist!

Written by Carina Madriaga

The Philippine Nurses Association of Colorado (PNACO) recently hosted an empowering educational event that was a resounding success. Nurses gathered for an evening of learning, camaraderie, and delicious Italian cuisine at Maggiano's in Denver!

Leveling Up on Gout Management

Gout is a complex condition, and our eloquent speaker addressed it head-on. The event featured renowned speaker Jo Ann Tenor, who delved into the latest research on gout, including:

• Understanding the root causes of gout flare-ups
• Effective strategies for symptom reduction
• Cutting-edge treatment options and medications

Deepening Knowledge & Building Connections

The event provided an excellent opportunity for nurses to:

• Gain valuable insights from Jo Ann Tenor's expertise.
• Discuss best practices with fellow Filipino nurses in Colorado and the community
• Ask questions, share experiences, and build connections.

Fueling Body & Soul with Delicious Italian Fare

After a stimulating educational session, attendees unwound and enjoyed a delectable Italian meal at Maggiano's. They savored mouthwatering dishes and connected with their colleagues in a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.

A Night of Learning and Community

This event served as a valuable opportunity for Colorado's Filipino nurses to elevate their knowledge and build a stronger network of support.

Stay Tuned for Future Events!

If you missed this event, don't worry! PNACO is dedicated to providing ongoing educational opportunities for its members. Keep an eye on our website or Facebook page for details on upcoming events.

Together, PNACO empowers Filipino nurses to deliver exceptional care! 

Play Cards and Donate Day 2024

    In February, we drove into the glitzy world of fundraising for a good cause in one of the atypical places: a Colorado casino at Grand Z Casino with our hardworking friend, Blessie. The Philippine Nurses Association of Colorado (PNACO) recently rolled the dice. We hit some luck with a fundraising event, with some wishing, "Winner, winner, or free lunch or dinner!" Picture this: blackjack tables buzzing, slot machines jingling, and nurses, friends, and family doubling down for a good cause. 

    The PNACO pulled out all the stops to raise funds to support the education of nurses, ensuring they can continue to serve the community with skill and dedication. Let's face it: who better to take a gamble on than the caring and capable nurses who keep our health in check? 

    A huge round of applause goes out to all the generous sponsors who donated their time and money to make this fundraising successful, especially Mrs. Blessie Tagle. Your support is truly appreciated and will make a real difference in the lives of the nurses,  patients, and the community they serve. Without you, this fundraiser wouldn't have been possible, and we tip our hats (or nurse caps) to you all! 

    But let's not forget the real MVPs of the day—the vibrant Filipino community that showed up in full force to support their nurses and had a great time doing it. So here's to the PNACO, the sponsors, the Filipino community, and the nurses whose dedication and hard work keep us all healthy and happy. 

     Remember, in the game of life, sometimes you have to bet some to win some—especially when it comes to supporting those who care for us when we need them most. Until next time!

Colorado Nursing Scholarship Offer

Here is the Google Word link to the application form. Please submit typewritten response and attachments ASAP to Dr. Leli Pedro at leli.pedro@PNACO.org.

 2023 PNACO student nurse scholarship applicatio...

We continue to accept new members. Please sign up through PNAA https://mypnaa.org/Membership-Form  and choose PNACO (Colorado) for chapter. 

Relational Aggression Education Offering

PNACO invites you to a scheduled free Continuing Education opportunity via Zoom.

Topic: Relational Aggression: Why Women Sabotage Each Other

Time: Mar 11, 2023, 05:00 PM Mountain Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting with PNACO, and our distinguished speaker, Ms. Kris Stewart RN, BSCN, MBA from Canada.  She is an accomplished nurse entrepreneur and TED speaker. 

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/2932185922?pwd=ckNRN2pOWCtEVHVZYkZTWmFjS1Fwdz09

Meeting ID: 293 218 5922

Passcode: ____

For Passcode: email armi.earlam@PNACO.org with your full name, State and Country, Profession (ie, nurse). CEU credit can be granted).

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Option, especially for new nurses in Colorado, to meet us in Denver, Colorado in the PNACO founder's home. Text Carina; at 720-224-8044 for the address with your name, mobile number, and email info. We plan to serve Kare-kare, pancit, pandesal, etc.