Norman Robinson

On February 2, 2023, at age 71, Norman Robinson, then-president of the Rotary Club of New Orleans, took the first of many steps to help a 4-year-old girl, nearly 5,000 miles away in Uruguay.

Her parents needed to get her to New Orleans–to a world-renowned expert in hyperbaric oxygen therapy. What should have been minor surgery for a broken elbow had left her unable to walk, talk, eat or even acknowledge people in the room.

The Rotary Club in Carmelo, Uruguay, reached the right person in Norman.

Norman may not have known anything about hyperbaric medicine, but he knew people. Not only did he have a strong network of Rotarians willing to apply their expertise and effort, but after 40+ years in broadcast journalism, he’d retired with a long list of people who trusted him, respected him and would help if he asked them. Throughout life, he says, “You form relationships. Things come up where those relationships will be important. You can call on people.”

He started making those calls. To the airport director to ensure the family’s arrival would go smoothly. To the parish president to help arrange transportation. The parents needed a translator. They needed so many things they couldn’t bring with them–from medical supplies to a shower seat. Norman made sure they were taken care of.

As a kid, Norman wanted to join his school band. He asked the band director if there was an instrument available–a position unfilled–and he was led to the euphonium, a tuba-like baritone horn. He’s played the euphonium ever since.

There’s something magical about how different instruments played together can create something so much bigger and more beautiful than any one player can on their own. That lesson goes deep for Norman. Understanding his part of a bigger picture, he has spent his life as an active participant in his community, doing what he can to make it better and more beautiful. From his days as a journalist, questioning politicians for the good of the public to his current volunteer work in a mentoring program that helps young teen boys grow into responsible men, Norman shows an abiding commitment to helping others. In so doing, he helps us all.

For the family from Uruguay, the world is a better place thanks to Norman Robinson and those he enlisted to help. The girl and her family have a long, hard road ahead, but they are guided by good signs and a renewed hope. All those who helped–all those who gave of their time or treasure–have learned yet one more lesson in the priceless value of service to a cause bigger than themselves.

Being able to assist one family so in need, and from so far away, reaffirms something in Norman about his decision to retire from a broadcast news career, nearly a decade before. He puts it simply: “This is the most rewarding part of my life.”

Peoples Health and the New Orleans Saints are proud to honor Norman Robinson as a Peoples Health Champion. He epitomizes Excellence Through Experience® – using the lessons of a lifetime to accomplish extraordinary things.