Volunteer inspired to serve patients at Northwestern Medicine Huntley Hospital after life-threatening neurological condition

Doug Bober

HUNTLEY, Ill. – August 19, 2026 – After surviving a life-threatening brain condition and multiple neurological procedures, veteran Doug Bober is helping patients navigate their own medical journeys at Northwestern Medicine Huntley Hospital as a volunteer.

Bober began serving the Northwestern Medicine community in 2018. Today, he assists as a endoscopy ambassador supporting care by stocking supplies, sanitizing rooms, organizing paperwork, and helps patients and families with wayfinding on the Huntley Hospital campus.

“I know what good care is like,” said Bober. “I want to be prompt, compassionate and friendly. I like to build rapport with patients to put them at ease and make them feel comfortable.”

Members of Huntley Hospital’s endoscopy unit describe Bober as a constant joyful presence on the team.

“He is very efficient and friendly with the patients and their families. He always has jokes to make everyone laugh,” said Yaqueline Ocampo, RN, an endoscopy nurse at Huntley Hospital.

Inspired to Give Back

Bober experienced his first absence seizure, a seizure where an individual loses awareness, while visiting his grandchildren. Tests and scans revealed he had an arteriovenous malformation (AVM), an abnormal connection between blood vessels in the brain.

Following his diagnosis, Bober underwent numerous embolization procedures and brain surgery in 2011.

“After my first surgery, I felt like I needed to give back,” said Bober. “I felt like maybe there’s something I can do.”

Drawing from his own experience as a patient, Bober hopes to make other patients feel comfortable, reduce their anxiety, and build rapport from the moment they arrive in the hospital. Bober said one of the most rewarding aspects of his volunteer work is connecting with the patients.

A resident of Huntley, Bober enjoys spending time with his grandchildren and visiting his home in Naples, Fla. when not volunteering at the hospital. He served in the Air Force Reserve and spent most of his professional career working in retail.

Volunteers at Northwestern Medicine

Bober is one of 65 volunteers supporting Huntley Hospital. During the 2026 fiscal year, volunteers have contributed nearly 6,000 hours of service.

“Whether they are welcoming visitors, supporting patients and families, or assisting our staff, volunteers touch countless lives and play an essential role at Huntley Hospital,” said Matt Carlen, president at Northwestern Medicine Huntley Hospital. “By generously giving their time and talents, they strengthen our ability to deliver world-class care and an exceptional patient experience. We are deeply grateful for their dedication and the meaningful impact they have on our hospital and community.”

Across Northwestern Medicine’s 11 hospitals, more than 1,580 volunteers have contributed 151,940 hours of service during the 2026 fiscal year. The program continues to grow, surpassing its 2025 fiscal year volunteer count of 1,440 volunteers.

“With a variety of roles and duties, volunteers can use their unique talents, skills and abilities in meaningful ways to make a difference for patients and families,” said Lisa Freund, director of volunteer services at Northwestern Medicine. “Whether serving public facing roles or supporting teams behind the scenes, there is a role for nearly everyone who wants to make a positive impact in their community and help others feel welcomed, supported and cared for.”

To find a volunteer opportunity at Northwestern Medicine, visit nm.org/volunteer.