During those first months of the pandemic, Donna didn’t miss a single day of work. 2020 brought new challenges to medicine, and to the rest of the world. Work someplace for 40 years, you might think you’ve seen it all. “I’d give her a high five in the hall,” said Roger. We didn't plan to have lunch together,” added Donna. “Our paths crossed once in a while, I mean.” “They were surprised when they found out,” said Roger. Working in different parts of the hospital, and different schedules, their co-workers had no idea they were married. “Nice to walk around in, some of the shops downtown.”įor years, while at work, the couple kept an unintentional secret. “Clifton’s just a quiet little town,” said Roger. The hospital is known as the cornerstone of Clifton Springs, a village with a population of about 2,100. The Smiths used to live so close to the hospital they could walk to work. “I remember somebody saying to me, you probably shouldn't stay at Clifton, because it's going to close any day now,” recalled Donna. But the four decades at Clifton Springs have been somewhat of a roller coaster ride. Donna as an operating room nurse, and Roger as a radiologist. The hospital was thriving when the pair were hired. “There was something about the culture at Clifton,” said Donna. “I can’t really describe it.” Both have been employed at Clifton Springs Hospital for more than four decades. Partners in life, the Smiths are also partners in work. The couple celebrates their 42nd wedding anniversary in May. Roger and Donna Smith of Canandaigua know this from experience. To stay in the game for so long, it takes a team effort. Love and commitment are two keys to a long, successful marriage. In Ontario County, one couple has taken that approach not just to their life together - but also their work.

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