Hersey still going strong after 36 years at Mayo
By Stuart Hedstrom
Staff Writer
DOVER-FOXCROFT — For over 36 years Ethel Hersey of Dover-Foxcroft has been giving of her time to volunteer at Mayo Regional Hospital. Hersey, who turned 90 last month, was recognized for her contributions to the hospital with a surprise ceremony in the lobby on the afternoon of Jan. 29.
Observer photo/Stuart Hedstrom
SURPRISE PARTY — Mayo Regional Hospital volunteer Ethel Hersey, right with hospital Volunteer Coordinator Lillian Smith, reacts upon being brought into a surprise gathering on Jan. 29 recognizing her over three and a half decades of service. Hersey, who turned 90 last month, has been a hospital volunteer since June of 1977 and is the only original charter member of the volunteer program still serving. She has given over 10,700 hours to Mayo Regional Hospital.
After those gathered to honor Hersey, including her son and grandson, sang “Happy Birthday” Mayo Regional Hospital Volunteer Coordinator Lillian Smith said Hersey began volunteering on June 28, 1977. The next April CEO Bob McReavy — who was in attendance at the presentation — asked Hersey to organize a group of Auxiliary members to serve as tour guides for an open house at the new hospital.
The tour guide initiative evolved into the volunteer program, and today Hersey is the only charter member still serving. By the end of the day on Jan. 29 Hersey had dedicated 10,742 hours to Mayo Regional Hospital.
“On June 28, 1977 you started as a volunteer,” Interim CEO Dr, David McDermott said. “In April of 1978 you were asked to organize the volunteers and you have done a great job with that.” Dr. McDemott added that not only is Hersey still involved in the volunteer program, “you are still really the leader in the organization.”
Dr. McDermott said Hersey is involved not only at Mayo Regional Hospital, but elsewhere in the community. The nonagenarian is an avid walker and volunteers weekly with the American Legion, Center Theatre and Dover-Foxcroft Congregational Church.
“I just enjoy it very much, helping the people wherever they want to go,” Hersey said after the presentation.