CONCORD, NORTH CAROLINA – There's not much that can slow down Ann Lyles when she's on a delivery.

It's anyone's guess just how many steps she gets in everyday.

Lyles spent years catering for Phillip Morris, but when the Concord plant closed she decided rather than retiring, she would work.

Eight years ago, at 72, she joined Carolinas Healthcare System Northeast in Concord as a hostess in the nutrition department.

The hospital provides meals to patients whenever they ask. Lyles pushes the meal carts and delivers the trays to patients.

Lyles is now 79. Her co-workers said she treats her work as more than a job.

"She doesn't leave a room unless a patient smiles back at her. She's absolute sunshine," said Carolinas Healthcare Northeast Nurse Debie Whitt.

Whitt nominated Lyles to be a Spectrum News Everyday Hero. She said when friends or family of patients can't afford a meal, Lyles pays for it herself.

"I catch her saying 'I see you're back' to a patient who might be re-admitted to the hospital, 'I'm sorry that you're back, but I'm really happy that you're here with us,'" Whitt said.

And despite Lyles own fears with hospitals, she focuses on calming her patients.

"I always tell them that I love them and that I'm praying for them," she said.

Food has the power to bring a smile to someone but when it's delivered by Lyles, it not only creates temporary happiness, but it can give someone the boost they need to get through an often trying experience.

If you have an idea for our next Everyday Hero please email us at everydayheroes@charter.com