Paulo Alves began his journey into wound care after witnessing the suffering and impact that poorly managed wounds have on patients’ lives. The experience motivated him to dedicate his career to prevention, treatment, and innovation in this field. Today his work is multifaceted, combining research, teaching, and clinical practice.

Paulo says it is a privilege to be part of an initiative that celebrates commitment, compassion, and excellence. He hopes the Silent Hero Award panel will not only highlight remarkable individuals but also inspire a culture of recognition and continuous improvement in wound care. One of the main challenges, he notes, remains the under-recognition of wound care as a complex and specialized area.

Paulo believes that the award has the potential to shine a light on best practices and provide role models for the wound care community. The true heroes, he says, are those who never stop believing that even one prevented wound can change a life.