PALMER - There's not much that slows down Eileen Alig.

At 81, she still works three days a week and alternating weekends helping those in need. This summer, the Good Samaritan Society recognized that devotion.

A room at the Good Samaritan Society in Manson was packed on July 18 with Alig's family and friends - proof that her work doesn't go unnoticed.

Alig was named the Good Samaritan Society's 2009 Certified Nursing Assistant of the Year. She was chosen from a pool of more than 7,000 CNAs who work for Good Samaritan at more than 230 locations across the country.

"It's a wonderful award," Alig said. "I hope I deserve it. It's something to be proud of and I am proud of having."

The Good Samaritan Society is a social ministry organization that supports people in their homes or at Christian Communities of Care. The Society hosts housing options and services from senior and assisted living, rehabilitation and long-term care.

Her humble acceptance is a typical trait, according to her loved ones.

"My mom has always quietly led by example," said her daughter Sandy Dittmer. "Being thanked or acknowledged by family, friends, co-workers, etc., for something she did or said seems to be all the reward that has even been necessary... Mom has always been there for us through the good and bad, and we will always be there for her."

Alig began her career as a CNA in Pocahontas in 1966. In July 1980, she began working at the Good Samaritan Society in Manson.

"Co-workers note that Eileen understands residents since she is from the same generation as many of them," said Dana Reese, administrator of the Good Samaritan Center in Manson. "Family members of residents comment that Eileen is never rushed when working with residents. Her beaming smile and contagious laughter help her to communicate with residents regardless of their cognitive state."

Working with patients is what Alig said she enjoys most about her job.

"To me, it's just a gratitude that I can help somebody - make their life happier," Alig said. "It gives me joy just to be able to help people."

Her daughter, Betty Sweet, said her mom's compassion in caring for people was evident when her father was sick. Alig's husband, Maurice, was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in 1970. He died at age 57 in 1978.

"Mom cared for dad with dedication and patience that I have never seen," Sweet said. "She cared for him for seven years in our home and then worked to afford to pay for him to live at a care center... People wondered how she did it - taking care of an ill husband, working nights with four children at home and some in college. She was always so strong and said that God will never give you more than you can handle and so you just go on."

Her faith and service to others are things many of her family members noted about her.

"Caring for others just seems to completely come naturally for her," said Alig's sister-in-law Rozella Hartman. "We know if we ever need any help we can call on her and she will be there for us."

Sara Martin, Alig's granddaughter, agrees.

"She is definitely the moral compass of the Alig clan and her priorities are always in order," said Martin. "She treats everyone with respect because she expects the same respect in return. Her faith carries her, and the rest of us every day and I can only hope to mimic her poise, service and character as I try to raise my own grounded family."

As for retirement, Alig said, "Maybe I can go for 85 as my goal."

Contact Angela Burch at (515) 573-2141 or aburch@messengernews.net