Attapulgus native Mary Frances Donalson was honored Wednesday by the Bainbridge-Decatur County Humane Society for her life-long dedication to animals.

Donalson, a charter member of the Humane Society, was presented a plaque to hang on the animal shelter’s “Tree of Dedication” by Society President Pam Immendorf and shelter Director Beth Eck.

Donalson was also given a heartfelt card from friends and fellow members of the Humane Society expressing their appreciation for all her efforts—from working with law enforcement to see that animal cruelty and neglect is seen as a serious crime to helping increase public knowledge and spread the mission of the Humane Society through her articles written during her time with The Post-Searchlight.

Recently diagnosed with lymphoma cancer, Donalson is determined to defeat the ailment and is known by her many friends to have a wonderful fighting spirit. She expressed her deep gratitude for the love, support and prayers she has received.

On her way home from the hospital Wednesday, she spoke about her excitement at getting to visit with her beloved pets, Max, a retired drug dog given to her by the Decatur County Sheriff’s Office, and her cats.