At Aultman, it takes a team to lead our community to improved health. Today, we'd like to introduce you to one of our dedicated volunteers – Janet Neib.

Where do you live (city/area)?

I have lived in the Canton area my entire life. I am a proud 1951 graduate of North Canton High School.

When did you begin volunteering at Aultman Health Foundation?

I began volunteering in 1981 by working in the mailroom – delivering mail to patients. Over the years, I’ve worked in physical therapy, the emergency department and the pre-surgery unit.

In what department do you volunteer?

Since 1996, I have worked as a lobby greeter. You can find me in the main entrance every Monday and Friday morning.

How did you decide to be a volunteer?

After my kids graduated from high school, I was looking for something to keep me busy. A friend of mine was a volunteer, and she told me about the opportunities at Aultman.

What do you like best about volunteering?

I enjoy helping people. I am often the first person to speak to patients and families as they enter the hospital. They are usually pretty stressed, and I try to help them feel more comfortable. I like to break the ice with them either with a kind word or a joke to take their mind off their illness.

Many of our patients and families spend a great deal of time at Aultman due to their illnesses. It feels really good to be on a first-name basis with them – I’ve become their friend. So much so, I even get hugs when they visit and phone calls throughout the week!

What are some of your hobbies/interests outside of volunteering?

I enjoy knitting, crocheting, watching Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy, cheering on the Indians and the Buckeyes and spending time with family and friends.

Tell us about your loved ones.

I was married to my husband, Charles, for 60 years before he passed away. We have two sons, both born on July 1 – and they aren’t twins! David and Douglas are three years apart. We also have two daughters-in-law and four grandsons.

Tell us something interesting about yourself that many of your friends may not know.

I am fascinated with cars, and when I turned 16, I wanted a car of my own. My dad said, “You’ll get your car the same way I got mine – earn the money.” That is exactly what I did. My first car was a 1949 Oldsmobile, followed by a 1953 Ford. The best deal I ever made was purchasing a 1931 Model A Ford for $45! My brother restored it for me. It was such a fun car to take out for a Sunday drive!