March 2026 Honoree

Kevin Cox, RN

  • Lexington VA Health Care System
  • Lexington
    ,
    KY
    ,
    United States
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Part I:

Hope of Pine Meadows asked if she could acknowledge an employee for helping her.

Hope was accompanying a patient to his appointment on 2 West. Hope said Kevin came to her rescue as she was attempting to move the stretcher and was struggling.

Hope said, "He saved my life, and I made sure to look at his badge. I was running into every wall down the hall."

She was very appreciative of your help.

Thank you, Kevin, for assisting Hope and the Veteran.

Part II: DAISY Leadership Nomination for Kevin M. Cox, RN

It is my honor to recognize Kevin Cox for his lifetime dedication to Veterans and to the nursing profession.

Kevin is a Veteran himself, having served in two branches of the military—the United States Army and the United States Air Force. His service to this country did not end when he took off the uniform; instead, it transformed into a career defined by compassion, integrity, and unwavering advocacy for those who have served.

Kevin brings a unique blend of calm strength and quiet humility to the Emergency Department every day. As an Assistant Nurse Manager, he consistently steps forward as a relief charge nurse and leader, ensuring that both patients and staff are supported during some of their most stressful moments.

He is known throughout our ER as someone who never takes sides, never raises his voice, and never hesitates to help. Whether he is assisting with patient flow, mentoring a new nurse, or simply taking the time to listen to a worried Veteran, Kevin treats each person with dignity and respect.

Recently, a recognition was submitted by another employee describing how Kevin came to her rescue while she was struggling to move a stretcher and felt overwhelmed. She stated that Kevin made her feel safe, valued, and heard, and that he saved her life.

Stories like this are not rare—they are typical of Kevin’s daily practice. He notices the small things. He anticipates needs before they are spoken. He leads in a way that reassures everyone around him.

Kevin exemplifies the core values of the VA: commitment to service, excellence in care, and devotion to Veterans. He models what nursing leadership should look like—steady, selfless, and centered on people.

His entire career has been built on putting Veterans first, and he inspires our team to do the same.

For all these reasons, he is truly deserving of this award.

Thank you, Kevin, for your exceptional compassion, advocacy, and dedication to your patients. You truly make a difference.

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