May 2026
Pauline
Cruz
,
RN
DaVita Kidney Care
Everett
,
WA
United States
She never allowed her own challenges to dim her compassion for others.
I would like to nominate Pauline for a DAISY Award because she represents everything the award stands for.
She is, without question, one of the kindest people I have ever worked with. Her compassion shows up in the small, everyday moments that matter most. She takes care of her patients with patience and empathy, and she treats her teammates with the same level of respect and support. She looks out for everyone in our center. If someone is overwhelmed, she steps in. If someone needs guidance, she makes time. You always feel better after talking with her.
What makes her commitment the most remarkable is her personal journey. After being diagnosed with colon cancer and undergoing multiple treatments, she returned to work in record time. She came back not just ready to work, but ready to give her full self to her patients and team again. Her strength, resilience, and positive attitude through that experience have inspired all of us. She never allowed her own challenges to dim her compassion for others. It has truly been one of the most incredible journeys I have ever witnessed.
Her dedication to patients goes far beyond her scheduled hours. She answers patient calls and messages even on weekends, simply because she wants them to feel supported and safe. She understands that healthcare does not stop at 5 pm, and she never makes a patient feel like a burden. Her responsiveness and follow-through build trust in a way that cannot be taught. On multiple occasions, she has driven 40 miles+ to bring patient supplies on a moment's notice; she doesn't even blink; she just springs into action. Home HD can be very difficult and cause patient and caregiver burnout, but Pauline makes her patients feel so supported and cared for that they become so incredibly confident and relieved. It's a truly special talent of hers.
During core team meetings, she consistently brings thoughtful insights and practical recommendations for improving patient care. She listens carefully, speaks with purpose, and always keeps the patient at the center of every discussion. Her ideas are grounded in real experience, and they make a difference.
She is dedicated, dependable, and deeply compassionate. Our patients trust her. Our teammates rely on her. Our center is stronger because she is part of it.
She truly embodies the spirit of the DAISY Award, and I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this recognition.
She is, without question, one of the kindest people I have ever worked with. Her compassion shows up in the small, everyday moments that matter most. She takes care of her patients with patience and empathy, and she treats her teammates with the same level of respect and support. She looks out for everyone in our center. If someone is overwhelmed, she steps in. If someone needs guidance, she makes time. You always feel better after talking with her.
What makes her commitment the most remarkable is her personal journey. After being diagnosed with colon cancer and undergoing multiple treatments, she returned to work in record time. She came back not just ready to work, but ready to give her full self to her patients and team again. Her strength, resilience, and positive attitude through that experience have inspired all of us. She never allowed her own challenges to dim her compassion for others. It has truly been one of the most incredible journeys I have ever witnessed.
Her dedication to patients goes far beyond her scheduled hours. She answers patient calls and messages even on weekends, simply because she wants them to feel supported and safe. She understands that healthcare does not stop at 5 pm, and she never makes a patient feel like a burden. Her responsiveness and follow-through build trust in a way that cannot be taught. On multiple occasions, she has driven 40 miles+ to bring patient supplies on a moment's notice; she doesn't even blink; she just springs into action. Home HD can be very difficult and cause patient and caregiver burnout, but Pauline makes her patients feel so supported and cared for that they become so incredibly confident and relieved. It's a truly special talent of hers.
During core team meetings, she consistently brings thoughtful insights and practical recommendations for improving patient care. She listens carefully, speaks with purpose, and always keeps the patient at the center of every discussion. Her ideas are grounded in real experience, and they make a difference.
She is dedicated, dependable, and deeply compassionate. Our patients trust her. Our teammates rely on her. Our center is stronger because she is part of it.
She truly embodies the spirit of the DAISY Award, and I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this recognition.