The 2025 West Region Caregiver of the Year Sothavy Pfaff’s story is one of quiet strength, unwavering loyalty and a level of commitment that has shaped the lives of an entire family for decades. 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.
Based in our San Diego, California, office, Sothavy, an LVN, has been nominated for the Max Heart Award for her exceptional care. She’s also passionate about shaping future healthcare professionals, sharing her experience with students just beginning their careers. She volunteers at a local college, helping train the next generation of nurses. Her dedication to the profession extends far beyond her scheduled shifts.
Three decades of devoted support
For more than 30 years, Sothavy has cared for the same two sisters, beginning when they were infants. Now middle‑aged, they still rely on her care—an extraordinary continuity that reflects the trust and stability she provides. When new nurses join the cases, she has them shadow her to learn every detail of the patients’ routines and needs. She knows consistency is essential and makes sure anyone entering the home is fully prepared.
Director of Business Operations Jeremy Van Leeuwen recognizes that her dedication and resilience is no small feat. “The commitment to work with someone for that amount of time—I think it’s 35 years total—is extremely uncommon and inspiring at the same time.”
A lifeline for an entire family
Sothavy’s reliability has become a lifeline not only for the patients but also for their elderly mother, who provides care when nursing support is unavailable. By showing up—day after day, year after year—she eases the burden on the family and gives them the reassurance that their daughters are safe, respected and cared for with dignity.
The patients’ mother, Barbara Wicks, says she wouldn’t have been able to care for her daughters without Sothavy’s help. “With two handicapped children, a lot of things are going on. When the girls were younger, they were in the hospital a lot. I remember one time Janelle was in one hospital and Melissa was in another hospital and our dog was sick. How could I handle that without her?”
Respect, dignity and true person‑centered care
Sothavy’s influence extends beyond clinical tasks. She treats her patients with a level of respect that makes them feel valued rather than dependent. She understands that showing up is only the beginning; what matters is how she shows up. Sothavy brings patience, compassion and a deep sense of responsibility to every interaction. Families often hope for a nurse who will care for their loved one as if they were their own. Sothavy embodies that ideal.
Honored among regional leaders
Sothavy 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.
See Sothavy’s impact in action
Watch Sothavy’s video to learn more about how she embodies Maxim’s values while empowering her patients to live life to the fullest, become more self-sufficient and advocate for their needs.
*Patient information and likeness featured with the consent of the patient/family*
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