The University of Guam's Dean of Nursing tells KUAM News that a healthcare system that was already on the brink of collapse before the COVID-19 pandemic needs all the help it can get to make it through these trying times.

Like many in her field, UOG dean of nursing Margaret Hattori Uchima is concerned about just how stretched thin Guam's healthcare professionals are. Uchima says these critical shortages existed long before COVID-19 started making headlines nationally and locally.

"We've been crying for help for [the Guam Memorial Hospital] for years. It's not anything new, so we haven't bolstered that system we've always had a nursing shortage, we have a physician shortage," she explained.

Uchima says the Guam Board of Nurse examiners - through the governor's public health emergency declaration - has been able to do more to help recruit crucial positions. She adds that nurses from around the island - including school nurses - have been activated, as well. So if you think you can help, if you have any sort of medical background, you are needed.

"We have Philippine nurses who have a license, but they didn't get a US license yet, they can get a temporary Guam license if they met certain criteria," she said.

She also said retired nurses have also reached out to help, and Uchima said at this point, any and all volunteers are needed - even for something as simple as answering phones. And while nurses, doctors and medical staff are on the front lines of the COVID-19 battle, Uchima said it's good know they aren't alone in the fight.

"I have people texting me day and night asking 'What can I do to help?' I have people right now getting food for nurses all weekend. We've been trying to make sure the people on the front," she continued, pausing as she was moved to tears. "[We] have the supplies and the food. You know, it's early in the game."

Uchima said she has been touched so deeply by Guam's generous nature - and it couldn't come at a better time, noting, "I'm not one to ask for help, but after the last week, I don't care, I'm calling everybody I know saying, 'Hey, can you donate water?' and people are pulling through. It's amazing."

If you want to help, reach out the Guam Board of Nurse Examiners at 735-7408/9.