Arlene Shaw helped to shape a family of caregivers who continue on in her tradition of service. Shaw’s decades of selfless dedication to the elderly and communities she’s served is a testament to her compassionate heart and incredible drive to make a difference in the lives of others. 

Dressed in traditional and historical uniforms comprised of a blue and red cape, white dress and cap, the Ohio’s Hospice Nursing Honor Guard were present to salute Shaw for her 52 years of service that has touched many lives. 

Shaw graduated from the Dayton School of Practical Nursing in 1971 and began her career at Grandview Hospital in Labor and Delivery, before moving to Good Samaritan. 

Crisis Care Team Leader, Jamie Seither, who is part of the Guard, said at the ceremony that Shaw’s greatest impact was during her tenure as the first nurse at the Charles Drew Health Center, where she helped launch vital healthcare services for the Dayton Community. 

Care Manager, Penny Culhane, also a member of the Guard, stated even after retiring from the Charles Drew Health Center, Shaw continued working in home healthcare, providing care to seniors, a population she deeply loved. 

Shaw’s legacy extends beyond her own work, and is carried on by her daughters, all of whom followed her into the healthcare profession.  

Since its kickoff during National Nurses Week in 2016, the Nursing Honor Guard has performed more than 200 tributes at the bedside of nurses who are in our care.  

Nurses across Ohio’s Hospice volunteer to be a part of the Nursing Honor Guard traveling to honor nurses who are in hospice care with Ohio’s Hospice. If you or someone you know is interested in being a part of this special journey and serving in the Ohio’s Hospice Nursing Honor Guard, email RequestNursingHonorGuard@OhiosHospice.org for more information.