Dexter, Missouri - Madeline Launius was recently recognized for her exceptional volunteer service with the cardiac rehabilitation program at the SoutheastHEALTH Center of Stoddard County.  She received the Ilena Aslin Service Award.  Ten years ago, Launius suffered a heart attack. She was treated at Southeast Hospital. As a longtime Dexter resident, she completed her cardiac rehabilitation at Southeast’s rehab clinic at the Dexter hospital. She subsequently started volunteering at the hospital in Dexter.

She has contributed more than 7,800 hours of service. She volunteers three to four days a week for five to six hours each day. She assists the cardiac rehab staff. Launius is a role model and inspiration for patients, encouraging them to embrace exercise and healthy eating. Bray said, “Staff members sing her praises and patients love here.”

The service award is named for Ilena Aslin who continues to serve as a volunteer at the Hospital, in the community and throughout the region. A past president of the Auxiliary, she was Missouri’s Auxilian of the Year in 2002 and served as president of the Missouri Association of Hospital Auxiliaries from 2008 to 2009.

Madeleine Launius of Dexter, Mo., center, receives the Ilena Aslin Service Award from Auxiliary President Judy Brown, left, and Ilena Aslin.