Maya Burger, RN

Maya exemplifies what it truly means to be an extraordinary nurse. When I think of Maya, I think of the word DAISY; I can think of an adjective for each letter representing the qualities she lives out every single day.

Dedicated. Maya is relentlessly dedicated to her patients and her team. She goes above and beyond in every situation, no matter how small the task may seem. Whether it's staying late, double-checking every detail, or making sure a patient feels safe and cared for, she never cuts corners. Her level of commitment sets the standard for everyone around her.

Advocate. Maya advocates like no one I've ever seen. She fights for her patients, her fellow nurses, and her techs with unwavering determination. She stands up for what is right in every scenario, ensuring every voice is heard and every patient receives the care they deserve. You always want Maya in your corner because she will not back down when it matters most.

Inspirational. Maya is a constant source of encouragement and inspiration. She pours into everyone around her, especially the techs on the unit, encouraging them to pursue their dreams, whether that's nursing, medical, or PA school, or even something bizarre. She speaks life into people and has become a role model for so many. She doesn't just support growth; she actively fuels it. Even among her fellow nurses, she uplifts those pursuing advanced practice roles, always leading with positivity and belief in others.

Sincere. Everything Maya does comes from a place of genuine love and compassion. Her care is never routine; it is intentional, heartfelt, and deeply personal. No matter the task, she gives her whole heart to her patients, treating each one with the dignity and kindness they deserve.

Youthful. Maya brings a light to every room she walks into. She approaches her work with a joyful, youthful spirit, laughing, connecting, and even dancing with her patients to lift their spirits during some of their hardest moments. She has a unique ability to make people smile when they need it most, turning difficult days into something just a little bit brighter.

When it comes to patient care, though there are many, one patient in particular, whom we'll call "Bear", stands out. He was extremely challenging, with significant psychiatric needs, and tested every staff member who entered his room. Many struggled to connect with him, but Maya was different. He trusted her. He called her "Mia", and would tell others to leave because he had "a deal to make with Mia".

Maya met him with patience, humor, and unwavering compassion. She calmed his fears and anxieties, even while navigating his rather unpredictable behavior. Sometimes even literally dodging food and urine, and who knows what else thrown across the room. Despite the difficulty, she never gave up on him. Instead, she built a foundation of trust where most could not. Through her care, he felt safe, heard, and understood in a way that truly mattered.

What makes Maya even more remarkable is her growth. She's gone from the sweetest, most tender-hearted baby nurse who would cry in the supply closet on hard days, questioning if this was her path, to the strong, confident nurse she is today. She now stands boldly for herself, her patients, and her team, never hesitating to speak up or step in when it matters most. Yet, she has never lost her softness. She has simply found and then learned to pair it with strength.

Maya is the kind of nurse who will never turn her back on someone in need. She consistently goes above and beyond, doing everything in her power to make things right for her patients, her coworkers, and anyone lucky enough to cross her path. There is truly no one more deserving of this recognition. She is not just an incredible nurse; Maya is the reason patients feel safe, the reason teammates feel supported, and the reason this profession is as meaningful as it is.