An employee of the Detroit Postal Service retired recently after 44 years on the job, an incredible feat in itself. What impressed her bosses the most, however, was her perfect attendance over all that time.

Deborah Ford says she took vacation time for doctor’s appointments rather than call in, and when she did feel sick, she’d just “shake it off”.

“You know what we say…”rain, sleet or snow, can’t stop the U.S. mail”, and that’s what I live by. I’m coming in,” Ford said.

The impressive employee got a surprise send-off earlier this month, complete with a party and a certificate proclaiming she was leaving with 4,508 sick-leave hours, which will be taken into account for her pension. According to Detroit’s laws, Ford will gain a 5% increase in her take-away pay for all those unused hours.

Paid sick days are one of the many perks of working for the Postal Service, as employees are given one a month which can accrue over time without limitations. Despite numerous post office closings over the past year and rumors that the entire service is dying out, the U.S.P.S. is still trying to take care of its employees.

Ford said she’ll miss the people the most.

“It’s been my honor to serve the postal system all these years. You don’t miss the brick and mortar, but you certainly miss the people,” she said.