Donor Story: Dr. Howard Tobin

Dr. Howard Tobin, a retired cosmetic surgeon who lives in Ovalo, Texas, has led a life dedicated to following his passions, one of which is supporting Israel. Ever since his first experience volunteering at a hospital in Nahariya decades ago, Israel has held a special place in Dr. Tobin's heart, and this shines through in his involvement with American Friends of Magen David Adom.

Born in New Jersey to devoted parents, Dr. Tobin credits them for raising him in a proud Jewish home and for always encouraging him, despite his penchant for troublemaking. Dr. Tobin pursued medicine at his father's prodding but found a true passion for the field. Describing himself as having loved going to work every day, Dr. Tobin filled his years with building the first independent cosmetic surgery practice in the United States, a loving marriage to his wife of 57 years, Gail z"l, and a beautiful family with a son who followed in his medical footsteps. Dr. Tobin, who retired last year at the age of 86, and his wife, Ruth, reside on a ranch in Texas that they operate together.

Dr. Tobin was a pilot and former air force serviceman; he held a pilot's license and was an active recreational aviator for more than 50 years.

By supporting AFMDA, Dr. Tobin feels he is able to strengthen his deep connection to Israel and is honored to contribute to the country's security and resilience. He considers himself deeply fortunate in many respects, for a beloved career, for the family he built, and for the ability to stay close to Israel through his charitable investments. That is why he chose to establish a charitable gift annuity with AFMDA, a way to make a lasting impact while also providing financial security for himself. He values this approach as a meaningful and thoughtful way to give back, combining personal planning with a commitment to a cause close to his heart.