My mom has been in the ICU for 11 days after a ruptured aneurysm, and during one of the most frightening and overwhelming times of our lives, Paige Happeny has been a source of comfort and compassion for our family. Every night, one of our family members stays in my mom’s room to sleep beside her. Paige has never once treated that as an inconvenience—she embraces it with compassion and warmth. Before bed, she lovingly prepares my mom for the night by washing, brushing, and rebraiding her hair, brushing her teeth, and offering her a warm towel to wash her face and help her feel refreshed. She doesn’t stop there—she also brings fresh pillows and warm blankets for both my mom and the family member staying with her, always making sure we are just as cared for. These gestures go far beyond medical care; they are acts of humanity and genuine kindness.

Paige also takes her time to explain every new development in my mom’s treatment with great patience and clarity. She never makes us feel rushed and answers every question thoroughly, as if my mom were her only patient. Her calm presence and willingness to walk us through this journey have helped give us a sense of peace during this incredibly difficult time.

One night, I asked Paige if she enjoyed being a nurse, and her response has stayed with me: she told me she takes great pride in caring for people who do not have their own autonomy, treating each of them as human beings with dignity who truly matter. This philosophy shines through in everything she does. It’s clear that Paige doesn’t just see a patient—she sees a person, and she cares for every single one as though they were her own family.

Paige embodies the heart of nursing. She is skilled, compassionate, patient, and profoundly human in her care. My mom and all of us who love her will be forever grateful for the way Paige has cared for her.