In 1997, Toni McGibbon found herself in need of a change after the passing of her husband, Herbert McGibbon, who hailed from Youngsville, Sullivan County. She decided to step into volunteering at Horton Hospital in Middletown, which is now Garnet Health Medical Center. What began as a way to stay active soon turned into a 26-year journey of service, dedication, and connection.
Toni’s selflessness has led her to become the hospital’s longest-serving volunteer, with over 17,000 hours of service under her belt. Her time has been spent in various roles, from helping patients with transportation to assisting at the registration desk. She’s particularly fond of her memories of discharging newborns with their families, a task she holds close to her heart.
“I wanted to help people. I enjoy it,” she said, reflecting on her volunteering journey. “As long as I can get out of bed every day and get dressed, I’ll keep volunteering.” After suffering from seizures that took her out of the workforce, she turned to volunteering to stay active and give back.
Her colleagues, like Mary Bingham, praise her uplifting spirit: “We always used to joke about her happy smile coming off the elevator. Toni’s warmth radiates, and everyone she helps feels it instantly.”
Even during the pandemic, when many volunteers were asked to stay home, Toni’s eagerness to return never wavered. She transitioned smoothly from the transport department to the registration desk, continuing to guide patients with the same grace and care she’s always shown.
“She’s more than just a volunteer,” said Maureen Roche, the hospital’s Volunteer Services Manager. “She’s built lasting relationships with patients, staff, and the community.”
Toni’s longtime friend and fellow volunteer, Lisa Jewis, shared fond memories of their time together: “From our very first shift, we clicked. We’d even head out to happy hour after work. Toni became family.”
At a recent celebration marking Toni’s milestone of 17,000 hours of service, she was recognized for the equivalent of 6,400 miles of walking—enough to reach California and back. Jonathan Schiller, Garnet Health’s President and CEO, expressed his gratitude, stating, “Thank you for showing us all what true care looks like. Toni’s dedication has been a gift to both the hospital and the community.”
Despite all the accolades, Toni remains modest. “I enjoy helping people. As long as I can keep moving, I’ll keep doing what I love.” At 72, she has no plans to slow down. Her devotion to helping others continues to inspire everyone she encounters, from hospital staff to the countless patients she’s helped over the years.
Photo by: Patricio Robayo
Note: Garnet Health is a WJFF business underwriter.