Longtime Mother-Baby Volunteer Shares 15 Years of Service at Hoag
For 15 years, Joy Ritchie has been one of the smiling faces helping new mothers and families begin their next chapter at Hoag. Twice a week, she volunteers in the mother-baby department, helping parents as they prepare to leave the hospital, guiding them with warmth, conversation, and, of course, a healthy dose of joy.
Joy first came to Hoag after the loss of her husband, Bill, to whom she was married for 53 years. “I realized I had to find something to make myself happy again,” she recalled. Remembering the compassion of the hospital staff who cared for Bill, she decided to give back as a volunteer.
It didn’t take long for Joy to find her place in the mother-baby unit. “It’s such a happy place,” she said. “I love meeting the moms and dads—they’re so proud and so hands-on.” She stresses that everyone who works at Hoag brings genuine care and kindness to their roles, creating an environment where families feel supported from the moment they arrive. Over the years, Joy has helped countless families, sometimes even welcoming the same mothers back for their second or third babies.
Her connection to Hoag runs deep. Joy and Bill were longtime donors to Hoag, and she carries on that tradition in his honor.
At 89, Joy continues to live up to her name, bringing light and positivity to everyone she meets. Earlier this year, her Hoag family surprised her with balloons, flowers and gifts to celebrate her birthday, a reflection of the warmth and appreciation she’s brought to others for so many years.
