Shirley LeMaster consistently provides exceptional care to patients and coworkers. One of her elderly patients had not seen a doctor for 2 years except for Urgent Care visits who referred him to hospice. The patient lived alone and had no immediate family. He needed hospital admission for end of life care but refused to leave his two canine companions. Shirley contacted the volunteer coordinator and together they made a plan so the dogs could have care and the patient could die peacefully.

Shirley spends many nights with patients at the hospital so the family members can go home and rest.

Very few hospices will take pediatric patients. It's too physically, mentally and emotionally draining on staff, but our hospice will take children and one of the reasons is Shirley LeMaster. Although it is painful and difficult, Shirley volunteers to care for these children. In one instance, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta could not find a hospice to care for a child just outside of our usual service area. Shirley agreed to care for this child. Her drive was much longer, and she continued to care for her usual case load but she was able to assist this family and child to prepare for the end of life and have a peaceful passing.

Caring for hospice patients may seem taxing, but Shirley sees it differently. She believes it is something she was called to do. "It was God's plan and it fills my heart," she said. "I love taking care of people and seeing their smiles. I know that's my purpose for being here.

For these and so many other reasons, Shirley was chosen as Floyd's first DAISY award winner.