HUNTINGTON, W.Va. (WSAZ) -- Imagine working 12 months over 14 years, racking up more than 10,000 hours -- and you don't get paid a dime for any of it.

For one local man, it was the time of his life and now he's receiving widespread recognition for it.

Ray Ridgeway spent many years giving of himself and now he's on the receiving end -- voted the West Virginia Volunteer of the Year. The award is delivering an unexpected gift of healing.

“This was a shocker, they put the phone up to my ear and they announced it. I was so happy,” said Ray Ridgeway.

Ray was emotional for good reason. After 14 years of selfless service walking the halls of Cabell Huntington Hospital volunteering his time, he received a top notch honor -- West Virginia volunteer of the year -- the hospital's first. It's an honor given by the Auxiliary of the West Virginia Hospital Association.

“I've called him mayor--he knows everyone. He goes from floor to floor and visits patients, doctors and really talks and listens to people. He’s been an advocate for the entire system,” said Kathy Dean, Manager of Volunteer Services.

“They’re a great group of people and whatever they ask of me, I do,” said Ray.

Ray worked so hard, he was recently named president of the auxiliary--the first man to get the job here. He's spearheaded many fundraising projects, the latest to help fund facilities in the new patient tower and children's hospital.

“It's been a big help to the hospital as far as pediatrics go. That’s our big goal right now,” said Ray.

But, sadly, Ray had to give all of that up late last year--growing health problems sidelined him forcing an unexpected retirement. But, this award has generated a renewal of spirit.

“He has worked so hard for so many years not expecting it and it comes at a time when he's sick and needs that lift,” said Sylvia Ridgeway, Ray’s wife.

Ray is currently a hospice patient. A hospice worker comes in twice a week to tend to his personal and medical needs giving his wife, Sylvia, great peace of mind.

“I can't say enough for hospice. It’s not just for those who are terminal, but it helps those in their homes,” said Sylvia.

And Ray is not only living life to its fullest in the face of adversity, he's planning a comeback—inspired partly by his volunteer job.

“That what I'm pushing for, they'll help me do it,” said Ray.

This top achiever says he may be down, but don’t you dare count him out. Ray was chosen over volunteers from every other hospital in West Virginia.