Riddle Hospital will receive a $16 million gift from the trust created in the Will of John Bancker Gribbel, who passed away in 1947 at the age of 63.

Gribbel and his family were dedicated patients of the former “Media Hospital” and of Dr. Charles H. Schoff, who founded that hospital in 1909. Dr. Schoff was also the physician caring for Samuel D. Riddle, who upon his death in January of 1951, stipulated that part of his estate be used to build a bigger and better hospital for Media and its surrounding communities.

In 1963, as a direct result of Mr. Riddle’s wishes, Riddle Hospital was opened.

“One of the reasons why Riddle Hospital is the best place to give and receive care is because of the history of generosity and unwavering support of our community members,” says Gary Perecko, President of Riddle Hospital.

“The charitable commitment of Mr. John Bancker Gribbel and his family benefits not only Riddle Hospital, but the health and wellness of our community, and we are forever grateful.”

As the largest gift bequeathed to Riddle Hospital since it opened, and the largest gift for Main Line Health in the past 10 years, the income from this endowment will support patient care at Riddle Hospital.

The gift comes at a critical stage in the history of Riddle Hospital and Main Line Health as the System prepares to implement a new Strategic Plan for 2016-2020, with a focus on enhancing the health and wellness of the community.

The funds will further increase Riddle and Main Line Health’s ability to invest in the people and infrastructures needed to provide high-quality, patient-centered care and a superior experience well into the future.