Kaleya Hudson
November 2025
Kaleya
Hudson
,
LPN
8th Floor
UAB Medical West Hospital
Bessemer
,
AL
United States

 

 

 

Kaleya wasn't my nurse, but she chose to step beyond her role.
1st Nomination
I was transferred extremely early in the morning, recovering from surgery. Upon arrival, I encountered three nurses, but only one made a lasting impression: Kaleya. She confidently walked into my room after the ambulance dropped me off and said, "Hi. My name is Kaleya, and I am a part of your healthcare team."

Kaleya was not my assigned nurse for the night, but that didn't stop her from stepping up with compassion and professionalism. It was Kaleya who cleaned, changed, and packed the wound on my leg. My wife is a nurse, so I understand how demanding the job can be. I called my wife during this time, and Kaleya even took a moment to speak with her. That meant a lot.

I really want to take a moment to reflect on an old saying: That's not my job. It's a mindset rooted in limitation; drawing hard boundaries around what we are and aren't responsible for. Kaleya wasn't my nurse, but she chose to step beyond her role. That choice was an act of integrity and ownership. It's the kind of responsibility that builds resilience, fosters humility, encourages service, and strengthens team culture. These are the quiet but powerful qualities of a true leader, and this world needs more people like that.

Thank you again.

2nd Nomination
Kaleya's kindness and positivity are consistent not just to patients, but to everyone she encounters, especially EVS. Every day, she greets us with warmth and compassion. She takes time to smile, make conversation, and greet. She treats everyone as equals regardless of their role. Her spirit does not go unnoticed. Outsiders see it, feel it, and remember it. She makes the hospital environment feel welcoming, where all team members are valued.