Treasure Coast Hospice (TCH) honored four individuals who have been instrumental in the development, growth and continued success of TCH at its annual Founders Day celebration where over 250 guests, friends, family and Board members gathered at the agency's Mayes Center in Stuart to recognize the devotion and generosity of the honorees.

Carol Pendleton, a former nurse, recognized the importance of developing a local hospice agency early in her career; in 1983 she was instrumental in lying the foundation for Treasure Coast Hospice's licensing. Marjorie Harrington, a social worker, became active in developing hospice care in the late 70's; in 1979 she sat on the first Board of Directors for Hospice of the Treasure Coast. The roots of Joan Hay-Madeira's devotion to hospice came from her spiritual commitment; over her many years Madeira visited countless patients and their families as a Chaplain Volunteer. Her devotion and generosity helped build the Hay-Madeira Hospice House and the chapel at the Treasure Coast Hospice Mayes Center in Stuart. Chick Summers became involved with Treasure Coast Hospice in the late 90's; his energy and personality have helped to raise significant funds and overall awareness at the agency's annual Friends of Hospice Golf events.

"Our success today as a provider of compassionate end-of-life care is a direct result of the vision and determination of these extraordinary individuals," said Dr. Louis Benson, CEO of Treasure Coast Hospice. "We are truly honored to have them as a part of our history."

Treasure Coast Hospice is a non-profit community organization of caring professionals and dedicated volunteers whose mission is to provide compassionate, comprehensive, high quality care to those with life-limiting and/or life threatening illnesses and those who share their lives in St. Lucie, Martin and Okeechobee counties. Hospice care is available to anyone regardless of age, illness or ability to pay, including social services, respite care, grief counseling and spiritual support.