Mary Chigos receives 2018 Lotus Award

Dedicated leader recognized for service as board member, fundraiser, outreach nurse, and more

Perhaps no one has worn as many hats at Mission Hospice as Mary Chigos. A Nurse Practitioner, she joined our board in 2002. Mary has served as Board Chair, long-time Development Committee Chair, and – most recently – the Co-Chair of our successful Hospice House Campaign. And when the organization had need for her professional skills on staff, in 2011 she joined our Clinical Outreach team, educating and connecting with local health care providers and potential patients.

Regardless of her role, Mary is quick to share a hug, a joke, or words of encouragement. A well-known community volunteer, she jumps in wherever help is needed, and always goes the extra mile.

Mary’s long-time dedication to Mission Hospice earned her the 2018 Lotus Award, presented at our 39th Anniversary Celebration in January.

“Mary represents some of the best of Mission Hospice,” says Lotus Award Committee member and Board member Sheila Young. “Her compassion makes her loved by her patients; her wisdom and humor makes her loved by the Board.”

The Lotus Award is given to someone who has shown outstanding support of our organization. Mary’s many years of passionate leadership made her a shoo-in for the award, but selecting her took some amount of stealth.

“As Committee Chair, Mary had always stopped any discussion about her potential receipt of this award,” says Sheila.

“This year, the Committee members were able to schedule a Lotus Award Committee meeting when Mary was out of town, and she was our unanimous choice. Next, the Board was able to approve the selection without Mary’s presence. The secret was safe until we lured her to a lunch to announce the good news.”

Mary’s commitment to hospice and palliative care – and about our community’s need for a hospice house – infuse everything she does. She has a comprehensive understanding from both a clinical and personal perspective, and she is eager to share this with others.

“Mary has a deep emotional commitment to Mission Hospice,” says Dr. Steve Weller, Board Chair and Co-Chair of the Hospice House Campaign. “She never hesitates to take on new challenges for the good of our organization, and takes great pride in the excellent care and leadership we provide to the community.”