May 2026
Paige
Velarde
,
RN
DaVita Kidney Care
Farmington
,
NM
United States
Paige consistently creates an environment where patients feel safe, heard, and respected.
I am honored to nominate Nurse Paige Velarde, a dialysis nurse, for the DAISY Award in recognition of the extraordinary compassion, leadership, and advocacy she demonstrates every day. Paige is soft-spoken by nature, yet when it comes to advocating for her patients, her voice is clear, confident, and impossible to ignore. She embodies the perfect balance of gentleness and strength. Patients trust her because she approaches every interaction with patience, respect, and genuine care but she never hesitates to stand firm when their health and safety is at risk.
A powerful example of Paige’s dedication was her leadership in promoting flu vaccinations within our dialysis community. Understanding how vulnerable dialysis patients can be, Paige took it upon herself to educate and encourage those who were hesitant. Rather than dismissing concerns, she took the time to listen, explain the importance of vaccination, and build trust through compassionate conversation. Her persistence, empathy, and commitment to patient education transformed hesitation into understanding. Because of her efforts, our flu vaccination rate now exceeds 90% — a remarkable achievement that directly protects the health of countless patients. Beyond this accomplishment, Paige consistently creates an environment where patients feel safe, heard, and respected. Dialysis can be physically and emotionally demanding, yet Paige’s calm presence provides reassurance and stability. She anticipates needs, explains care thoroughly, and treats each patient with dignity. Her attentiveness goes beyond clinical skill; she cares for the whole person.
What makes Paige truly extraordinary is the way she connects with her patients. She recognizes that dialysis is not just a procedure; it is part of a person’s daily life and journey. Paige treats each patient with dignity and respect, offering encouragement, patience, and understanding during difficult moments. Her attentiveness and advocacy help patients feel supported, heard, and cared for beyond their medical needs. Even on the busiest days, Paige never rushes her care. She anticipates concerns, responds quickly, and maintains a reassuring presence that builds trust. Her commitment to excellence and her heartfelt compassion embody the true spirit of nursing.
A powerful example of Paige’s dedication was her leadership in promoting flu vaccinations within our dialysis community. Understanding how vulnerable dialysis patients can be, Paige took it upon herself to educate and encourage those who were hesitant. Rather than dismissing concerns, she took the time to listen, explain the importance of vaccination, and build trust through compassionate conversation. Her persistence, empathy, and commitment to patient education transformed hesitation into understanding. Because of her efforts, our flu vaccination rate now exceeds 90% — a remarkable achievement that directly protects the health of countless patients. Beyond this accomplishment, Paige consistently creates an environment where patients feel safe, heard, and respected. Dialysis can be physically and emotionally demanding, yet Paige’s calm presence provides reassurance and stability. She anticipates needs, explains care thoroughly, and treats each patient with dignity. Her attentiveness goes beyond clinical skill; she cares for the whole person.
What makes Paige truly extraordinary is the way she connects with her patients. She recognizes that dialysis is not just a procedure; it is part of a person’s daily life and journey. Paige treats each patient with dignity and respect, offering encouragement, patience, and understanding during difficult moments. Her attentiveness and advocacy help patients feel supported, heard, and cared for beyond their medical needs. Even on the busiest days, Paige never rushes her care. She anticipates concerns, responds quickly, and maintains a reassuring presence that builds trust. Her commitment to excellence and her heartfelt compassion embody the true spirit of nursing.