Ben Tobias

Ben Tobias

Ben Tobias’s relationship with Memorial began in 2010 when his wife was diagnosed with both cancer and a terminal lung disease. From the start, the couple chose Memorial for her care, with great trust in the medical team.

His connection deepened in 2015, when his mother entered Memorial Manor for dementia and memory care. Now over 100 years old, she remains there today and Ben has been consistently impressed by the compassion and dignity of her care. “We’ve been extremely happy with everything they’ve done for her over the last decade,” he says.

Serving on the Memorial Foundation’s board has given Ben a unique alternate perspective. He’s seen firsthand the difference philanthropy makes, not just in new facilities or programs, but in the kinds of treatments available to patients. “Certain care options simply wouldn’t exist without philanthropy,” he observes. “That’s something people should consider when deciding where to go for care and where to lend their support.”

After his wife’s passing in early 2024, Ben began to reflect even more deeply on legacy and impact. His personal estate plan includes a private foundation that will be funded upon his passing, with The Memorial Foundation among the organizations named to benefit.

Ben’s charitable spirit runs deep. “I was brought up to be charitably inclined,” he explains. “Once I started doing well enough to make contributions, I did. It’s in my DNA.” But as a retired financial planner, he acknowledges that getting started can be the hardest part—deciding when and how to give. And that’s something that the Foundation can help with, offering expert advice and helpful information.