Maxim Healthcare proudly announces Cory Hicks, LPN, as our 2025 South Region Caregiver of the Year! The Caregiver of the Year award recognizes nurses, caregivers and behavioral health professionals who embody our values and demonstrate excellence with their patients and communities.
Cory works at our Asheville, North Carolina office and his team says he has a way of making every space feel lighter the moment he walks in. His consistency and showing up with patience, warmth and professionalism has made him someone the entire office looks forward to hearing from.
Compassion in crises
His compassion reaches far beyond the office. During Hurricane Helene in late September 2024, as evacuation orders shifted and weather conditions changed by the hour, Cory stayed vigilant—tracking updates, anticipating needs and preparing his patient, Parker, and Parker’s family to leave at a moment’s notice. His dedication didn’t stop once the storm passed. When wildfires later threatened the same area, Cory once again stepped in without hesitation. By the time the Parker’s parent arrived home after receiving the evacuation call, Cory had their child fully packed and ready to go—with a week’s worth of supplies, clothing, toys and anything else that might bring comfort during a stressful time. In moments when families feel overwhelmed, it’s these thoughtful details that make all the difference.
A Family’s Gratitude
Parker’s father, Jeremy Talbert, says that anyone who knows Cory is truly fortunate. “Parker doesn’t get to have a whole lot of people in his life, but he’s blessed to have someone like Cory in his life. It makes your family feel good to know that there’s somebody else out there that doesn’t have to care that really does care.”
Recognized for excellence and trust
Cory’s commitment to his patients has earned multiple recognitions. The Asheville office has named him Caregiver of the Month twice, reflecting his reliability, compassion and the trust he builds with families. Those who work with him describe him as communicative, thorough and detail‑oriented—the kind of nurse every family hopes for. He uses both his clinical skill and his heart to guide every decision, and it truly makes a difference.
Supporting families through difficult moments
One of the patients Cory has recently supported is a young man receiving palliative care. The emotional weight of end‑of‑life decisions can be overwhelming for families, yet Cory offered steady, empathetic support as they navigated those difficult conversations. His presence brought comfort during a time when compassion matters most. He often steps in to help with coverage and is always willing to support other patients and families.
Caring for the whole person
Cory’s work shows what it means to care for the whole person—their safety, dignity and emotional well‑being. His actions during natural disasters, his steady support for families and his everyday kindness reflect the best of caregiving. His team sees it, his patients feel it, and his community is stronger because of it.
Honoring regional excellence
Cory is one of three regional winners selected from hundreds of nominations across the country. One of our regional winners will be chosen as the National Caregiver of the Year at this year’s award ceremony.
Learn more about Cory’s impact
Watch Cory’s video to see how he embodies Maxim’s values while caring for Parker, who has Sanfilippo syndrome.
*Patient information and likeness featured with the consent of the patient/family*
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