If the name Sharon Buck sounds familiar, one of the reasons may be because she helped you or someone you know find affordable prescription medications through the SenioRx Program in Marshall County.

For all of the things Sharon does or has done, and how she gives back to the community, this month she was honored with an Area Agency on Aging Award during the Alabama Senior Citizens Hall of Fame ceremony.

“We are so proud of Sharon for her day-to-day accomplishments but also for this prestigious honor,” said TARCOG’s Director of Aging Programs, Sheila Dessau-Ivey. “This year, for three consecutive quarters the TARCOG Region’s SenioRx program was first place in the state for new clients. Sharon is one of six coordinators who made this happen.”

Sharon was surprised almost speechless when she read the notification letter while going through mail after she and her husband returned home from a trip.

“I started reading it and I’m like, ‘Um. Um. Okay. Well. Oh my! Well!’ And of course I had a shocked look on my face,” Sharon said. “My husband asked, ‘What is it?’ And all I could say was ‘Oh my gosh! Oh my gosh!’ And I just handed him the letter.”

A humble Sharon said she feels honored and blessed about the recognition.

Sharon lives in Guntersville and has worked part-time for four years with the Marshall County Council on Aging. Her employment stemmed from her participation in the Senior Community Service Employment Program through TARCOG. That’s how she re-entered the workforce following a brain injury that left her on disability and only eligible to work part-time.

“I forgot how to the play the piano, I forgot a lot of things and still trying to get it all back,” Sharon said.

Her openness about her own health struggles helps her connect to her with those seeking help with their medications.

“I didn’t come to the job for the money,” Sharon says. “I do it to supplement my disability check but more than anything I do it to help people. It’s a pay it forward thing for me. The extra money is nice, but I just like being around people and helping people. I enjoy doing what I do, and I love my clients.”

Marshall County Aging Programs Director Tammy McElroy said Sharon is a dedicated employee who truly cares about those she serves.

“She is very deserving because she works very hard for her clients,” Tammy added.

Sharon took several family members with her to the award ceremony, which was held on Sunday, Aug. 11, at the Montgomery Marriott Prattville Conference Center at Capitol Hill.