Santa Fe Nurse Nick Armijo Faces Cancer After Caring for Others

After nearly three decades dedicated to caring for critically ill patients, Nick Armijo, a nurse in Santa Fe, New Mexico, is now battling a rare and aggressive form of cancer. In December 2022, Armijo was diagnosed with extraskeletal osteosarcoma, a type of cancer that affects soft tissue near bones. He is currently undergoing treatment at the Mayo Clinic in Arizona, which includes radiation and surgery.

Armijo, 63, has spent decades working as a critical care nurse, often in high-stress environments where life-and-death decisions are part of daily routines. He has been praised for his unwavering commitment to his patients, often viewing his work as a calling. “I just focus on doing the best that I can for that patient — because that’s what God wants me to do,” he noted, reflecting on his years of service in healthcare.

A Legacy of Care in Crisis

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Armijo managed the Frost 19 unit at Christus St. Vincent Regional Medical Center, where he and his team cared for critically ill patients. This unit became a lifeline for those suffering from the virus, earning recognition as one of the top ten contributors in The New Mexican’s “10 Who Made a Difference” for 2020.

Working in the pandemic’s chaos, Armijo provided emotional support to patients who could not have family members by their side. Fellow nurse Mary Money Gallegos, who has collaborated with him since 2000, described Armijo as a reliable comrade. “When I look at you, I know today’s going to be OK — because you’re here,” she stated, highlighting his reassuring presence during turbulent times.

The Frost 19 unit faced unprecedented challenges, with a core team of eight nurses and four technicians, alongside various support staff. Armijo recalled, “Never in my life have I been challenged so much, has our healthcare team been so challenged, and people were still dying.” His dedication to his patients and colleagues was evident as he helped navigate the intense pressure of caring for patients during a crisis.

Finding Strength in Adversity

Now on the other side of the healthcare equation, Armijo is facing a different kind of battle. He described his experience with cancer as distinct from the challenges he faced with COVID-19. “The difference between COVID and cancer is, when I heard the word cancer, my hope was gone,” he shared. Nevertheless, he draws strength from his faith and the support of his wife, Bernadette Armijo, who has been a constant source of encouragement throughout his treatment.

Despite the hardship of being separated from his wife and colleagues during his treatment, Armijo remains grateful for their support. He lamented the missed moments, such as spending Valentine’s Day together or celebrating their wedding anniversary on Leap Day, but finds solace in his wife’s unwavering presence. “I miss the team that I work with — because every day we would do our best to keep people alive,” he expressed, showcasing his dedication to both his profession and his patients.

Armijo’s journey is a testament to resilience and the profound impact of healthcare professionals on the lives they touch. As he undergoes treatment, he remains hopeful for a future where he can return to his vital role in the healthcare community. “My goal is once again to come back and just be with them again,” he affirmed, embodying the spirit of care he has given throughout his career.