Rep. Woody Burton honored Marty Chitwood yesterday for her years of dedicated service and commitment to the children of Indiana.
Marty Chitwood has dedicated her life to helping children. Her work began in the 1960s as a secretary at V. O. Isom Elementary School in Greenwood. Although she had a secretarial role, she often assumed the role of school nurse during her tenure there.
In the 1990s, she continued her tradition of volunteerism at Riley Hospital for Children in Indianapolis. While it was not always easy for her, she provided comfort and support to children and their families suffering with cancer. Additionally, she volunteered as a school nurse at Westwood Elementary School in Greenwood.
In addition to her commitment to children in the community, Chitwood was a church organist, volunteered in local politics and served as a Matron of the Eastern Star.
“A lot of times, we recognize people with high profiles, and we often overlook regular people that do great things,” said Rep. Burton. “I am honored to recognize Marty Chitwood because she has given so much to her community and brightened the lives of a number of children without asking for anything in return.
“Marty is a beacon of compassion and hope for all the children and families that she has impacted over the years. It was not always easy for her to surround herself with sick children, but her kindness and generous donation of her time to these children during their time of need will be forever remembered.”
Now 87 years old, Chitwood has been battling lung cancer for the past five years. Despite her own battles, legislators noted that her impact continually reaches beyond her own community.
Chitwood was greeted to a standing ovation by all legislators, staff and members of the public and her family that were present during today’s legislative session.
