Santa Fe Nurse Nick Armijo Fights Rare Cancer After Decades of Care

Nick Armijo, a dedicated critical care nurse in Santa Fe, is now facing his toughest battle yet: cancer. After nearly three decades of caring for critically ill patients, including a pivotal role in managing the COVID-19 unit at Christus St. Vincent Regional Medical Center, Armijo was diagnosed in December 2022 with extraskeletal osteosarcoma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer that develops in soft tissue near bones. He is currently undergoing treatment that includes radiation and surgery at the Mayo Clinic in Arizona.

At 63 years old, Armijo has devoted his life to helping others, viewing nursing as more than a job; he considers it 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 remarked. This spirit of commitment has not waned during his own health crisis, as he draws strength from gratitude and the support of his wife, Bernadette.

From Caregiver to Patient

Armijo’s journey into healthcare began nearly 40 years ago as a hospital housekeeper. Over the years, he trained to become a nursing assistant and then a registered nurse, consistently finding fulfillment in his work. “God has put me somewhere where I enjoy going to work, and that’s why I’ve been doing it for so long,” he explained.

The personal connections he forged with both patients and colleagues are evident. Mary Money Gallegos, a fellow nurse who has collaborated with Armijo since 2000, described him as an invaluable ally. “You’re my comrade. You’re my back-up. You’re my strength,” she said, emphasizing Armijo’s positive influence during the most challenging times, particularly throughout the pandemic.

During the height of COVID-19, Armijo helped oversee the Frost 19 unit, a designated area for treating severely ill patients. The team, which included eight nurses and four technicians, faced immense challenges as they cared for individuals isolated from their families. “Nobody could come in to see their family members, and so these people were dying by themselves, with only the nurses,” Money Gallegos recalled. The dedication of the Frost 19 unit earned recognition in The New Mexican’s “10 Who Made a Difference for 2020.”

Facing a New Challenge

Despite his extensive experience in healthcare, Armijo described his cancer diagnosis as a daunting challenge. “The difference between COVID and cancer is, when I heard the word cancer, my hope was gone,” he stated. This profound shift in his health has prompted him to lean on his faith and the unwavering support from his wife.

Due to his treatment schedule, the couple missed spending Valentine’s Day together this year and will be apart for their upcoming Leap Day wedding anniversary. Nevertheless, Armijo remains grateful for Bernadette’s support in planning trips to the Mayo Clinic and managing their health insurance.

Reflecting on his time away from the nursing field, Armijo expressed a deep sense of loss. “I miss the team that I work with — because every day we would do our best to keep people alive,” he said. He remains hopeful for the future, stating, “My goal is once again to, after all this, come back and just be with them again.” As he battles cancer, Armijo’s commitment to his calling and the people he serves continues to inspire those around him.