Yeni Valdez
May 2026
Yeni
Valdez
,
LPN
Avina Healthcare
Skokie
,
IL
United States
To know Yeni is to understand what true nursing looks like. It’s not defined by skill or experience alone, but by a sincere passion for making a difference.
There are some nurses who do their job well, and then there are nurses like Yeni Valdez, who leave a lasting imprint on every life they touch.

Yeni’s story is a testimony to the dedication and heart of nursing. She has been a constant source of strength, compassion, and unwavering support for residents, families, and staff alike.

Starting her journey with us as a receptionist in 2007, her welcoming smile brought warmth and the ability to make everyone feel seen. Yeni then transitioned to a CNA, where she spent four years learning and growing while attending nursing school.

Upon graduating as an LPN in 2012, Yeni began working bedside, where she spent the next 11 years providing exceptional hands-on care.

In 2023, Yeni became a Unit Manager, where she now leads not from a distance, but side by side with her team. No matter how busy the day becomes, Yeni is always willing to step in, lend a hand, and ensure that every resident receives not just care, but dignity, comfort, and kindness.

What makes Yeni truly extraordinary is the way she makes people feel. Our residents trust her, and families find peace of mind in her presence. Our staff feels supported, guided, and genuinely valued under her leadership. She has a quiet but powerful way of turning even the hardest days into manageable ones, simply by remaining steady, selfless, and fully present.

Yeni is a teacher at heart. She never hesitates to share her knowledge, mentor others, and uplift those around her. At the same time, she remains humble and driven, always seeking opportunities to learn and grow. That balance of confidence and curiosity inspires everyone who works with her.

To know Yeni is to understand what true nursing looks like. It’s not defined by skill or experience alone, but by a sincere passion for making a difference. She shows up every day with patience and a commitment to changing lives, no matter how small the moment may seem. She is a true inspiration to many, including her daughter who is now pursuing her dream of following in her mother’s footsteps by becoming an amazing nurse.

Yeni does far more than care for her residents. She transforms what care feels like for every person she meets. And for that, she is more than deserving of the DAISY Award.