Midwest Region
Thelma Moore, Volunteer – Chattanooga, TN
“I cannot imagine our hospice program without Thelma. That’s how important she is to us!“ – Nomination from coworker
Despite walking with a walker after undergoing cancer treatment that led to an infected wound, Thelma Moore is an active volunteer at the Senior Olympics, camp BEACON, and in the community. A steady, calming presence, she would never complain about her own issues, but is there to listen to patients and coworkers when they need her. More than 25 letters from patients, family members and coworkers accompanied her nomination. She has truly made a difference in the lives of the people she touches.
Northeast Region
Larry Gould, Volunteer – Londonderry, NH
“I never would have believed one man could make an impact on so many people.” – Letter from Nursing Home Director
Known as “Mr. Hospice” in his community, Larry Gould is a breath of fresh air in Londonderry. Always in shorts and providing just the right amount of humor and compassion, he instinctively knows what kind of support people need. When one patient died, he continued to visit the roommate so he wouldn’t be alone. When family members struggle with grief, he continues to visit them as a friend instead of a volunteer. Another patient requested that Larry make decisions for him if he were ever unable. Larry embodies the compassionate care Amedisys provides.
Southeast Region
Linda Bailey, Volunteer – Lawrenceville, GA
“Her light shines throughout the darkness that often engulfs the families throughout the terminal experience.” – Nomination from coworker
It takes true talent to capture the essence of a person. But when Linda Bailey sews a gown for someone, that’s what she does. Her beautiful, hand-sewn gowns are customized based on individual preferences and personality. She takes special care to make sure that the gowns reflect the spirit of her patients. With her extraordinary gift, it’s no surprise that patients have requested to be buried in Linda’s gowns. One family said that they felt their mother’s voice was still expressed through the gown, even in her death.
West Region
Judy Davis, Volunteer – Roseburg, OR
“Judy has one of the biggest hearts we have ever seen. She is an inspiration to all our staff and all that meet her.” – Nomination from coworker
While caring for her dying husband, Judy Davis was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Though cancer has now spread to her lungs, she continues to care for patients when she can and is happiest when helping others. She’ll donate firewood to a stranger or even miss her birthday dinner if it means she’s helping someone else. Through it all, she refuses to resign herself to her illness and continues to care for patients as well as continue doing what she loves – traveling around the world – to Egypt, Europe, and most recently, Peru.