Mickey B is this older gentleman that works at the VA. On November 8th he turned 89 years old… well at least that’s what he thinks. Apparently, they didn’t keep good records back in the day, so he may be a bit older than that. I’m sure you’re thinking, “89 years old? Why is he still working?”. Just ask him, and the answer is simple: work makes him happy.

I have the pleasure of seeing Mickey a few days of the week when he passes through our department. Though his eyesight is failing him and he’s not as quick as he used to be, he still happily goes on with the work day. I usually start by greeting “Good morning Mickey how are you today?’  He sings back “Gooooood mooorrning to yah. I’m blessed.” It always makes me smile to hear that.

Sometimes, when time permits, he’ll stay awhile and tell me stories about his wife before she passed, how proud he is of his grand daughter who is now in college, the racism he experienced back in the day, the latest sports scores or just feel good stories of his past. He’s got amazing stories and I feel like he helps reminds me of what’s important through each memory he shares. I’m lucky to have met Mickey B.

We had a party to celebrate his belated birthday. People from all over the hospital came by to greet him and share cake. It was a wonderful sight to see how many people love and appreciate him. 89 years old and he dedicated 40+ years to the VA. He’s been through all the changes, renovations and has seen hundreds of employees come and go. He knows everyone! People would come in and share a story and laugh and some would start to cry and had to leave. I didn’t understand.

After the party, it was brought to my attention that Mickey B is sick. Actually got me tearing up too. You would never know he was sick, because he’s always smiling and laughing with us. He’s totally an inspiration!