Albert - a volunteer with heart

BURLINGTON TWP., N.J. - November 21, 2008 77-year-old Albert Megee of Delanco is a familiar and friendly face in the halls of the Masonic Home in Burlington.

That's where over the last 7 years he's racked up an amazing 3,100 hours as a volunteer transporting residents to physical therapy and delivering ice water.

Why does he do it?

"Because I love to help people and it just gives me something to do," Albert said.

Albert, a retired farmer, was recently honored with the Governor's "Against All Odds" Volunteer Award. He is the recipient because, although he suffers from leukemia and Parkinson's disease, he still manages to volunteer at the Masonic home two days a week.

"Albert is a very giving person and no matter how he feels he's always here," volunteer director Tonya Costlye-Stilts said.

Albert says his motto is "don't sit around--do something!". He says it keeps him active and the people appreciate his effort.

"Oh, he's wonderful and I believe he really deserves that award. He's always very cheerful and, of course, we all need that.

"I'm kind of a person that doesn't like all this attention, but it was nice and there's a lot of people who deserve it as much as I do," Albert said.

Albert's fellow volunteers are celebrating his award with cheers in the hallway and a party in his honor. His coworkers can't help but admire Albert's outlook and sense of humor.

"I think I'm going to start signing autographs and selling them!" Albert said.

He may get worn out at times and shake from his Parkinson's, but one thing Albert Megee isn't going to do is give up.

"[I'll] keep going as long as I can and as long as I feel good. I look forward to it when I get up in the morning," Albert said.

And people look forward to seeing Albert.

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