“Northumberland County has been good to my family and I over the years,” shares Jeff Gilmer. “I feel fortunate to have most of my family in the area, as well as both lifelong and newer friends here, and I am dedicated to supporting our hospital as a way to give back to my community and ensure everyone continues to have access to quality care locally.”

Jeff has a deep appreciation and understanding of the importance of healthcare, which may stem from his extended family’s long service in the industry. His wife, Cyndi, not only grew up with a mother who was a nurse and a grandfather who was a doctor but has also worked her career as a nurse – including roles in public health, at the bedside, administration, and currently as a professor of nursing.

Having grown up and lived most of his life in Port Hope, Jeff feels fortunate to call such a beautiful and friendly community home. Before retiring in 2010, he worked alongside his two sisters, operating their family-owned hardware store, which their parents had originally opened. Upon retirement, he ran for and was successful in securing a seat on Port Hope Town Council, where he served as Deputy Mayor of the town from 2010-2014. He is currently the Chair of the Port Hope Police Services Board and Past Chair of the Northumberland Hills Hospital (NHH) Foundation Board.

As a member of the Exceptional Community, Exceptional Care Campaign Cabinet, Jeff hopes his support will help maintain a well-staffed and well-equipped hospital that is prepared to meet the growing and changing needs of our community. He feels that having access to the best technology in any business or service makes a difference, and it is imperative for the community to step up to ensure that access is achieved.