97-Year-Old Popcorn Man

Mooney McBurney is our 97-year-old Popcorn Man. Mooney has been a volunteer since 1991 and is remarkable. When I asked him to share his story on a blog - he kindly replied that he thought the technology is remarkable and has advanced tremendously over his lifetime. So we agreed that I would share his story with you, on his behalf.

Mooney is a very well traveled man. He worked in California for most of his career and has traveled the world. When he retired, he began to look for ways to fill his time. He met a friend at church who was the Popcorn Man at Harris. In 1991, he came to volunteer with his friend - and has stayed ever since.

With more than 12,000 hours of service to our hospital, Mooney says he looks forward to Friday's when he can come and visit with all the people who walk by. He recently appeared on Fox 4 News, who named him a Hometown Hero. Mooney told me that when he went to his usual breakfast place this morning, the diner had rolled out a red carpet in honor of his moment of fame.

Mooney is truly famous in our hospital. Employees love to come by and see his shining face every Friday. David Kerr, engineering supervisor, said, "Mr. Mooney has been an inspiration to my wife and I since he started. I always look forward to seeing him. I am encouraged by his kind smile."

Above are photos of Mooney and his friend, Forest. Special thanks to Forest who is dedicated to bringing Mooney to volunteer every Friday. Photos below are of Mooney's TV debut with Clarice Tinsley. Also pictured is David Kerr.