In an emotional farewell for a cherished local pharmacist, an 11-year-old boy from Weston, Massachusetts, stunned his community and longtime pharmacist Bob Hesselberg by presenting him with a $6,000 thank-you gift on Saturday morning. This touching event unfolded at the soon-to-close Walgreens on Boston Post Road, where Hesselberg has served his community for nearly three decades.
For the past 30 years, Hesselberg, affectionately known as “Pharmacist Bob,” has been a fixture in Weston, greeting customers by name, checking in on their well-being, and remembering details about their families. His kindness and genuine care left a lasting impact on those he served, and the community was eager to show their appreciation. Led by 11-year-old Aarav Khanna, the sendoff was an outpouring of gratitude from loyal customers and neighbors who wanted to honor Hesselberg’s commitment before the store permanently shutters next month.
The Walgreens location is closing as part of a broader series of corporate cutbacks by the pharmacy chain, and Hesselberg, 75, will relocate to a Walgreens in Waltham. Hesselberg admits that although he could retire, he’s not ready to stop working. “I don’t want to retire,” he shared emotionally. “I’m not ready for it.” While he hopes that some customers will follow him to his new location, he worries about older patrons who may find it difficult to make the drive, especially since Walgreens has ended its home delivery services.
Aarav Khanna, a young customer who sees Hesselberg daily as his school bus stop is located right across from the store, felt compelled to organize the farewell gift. “I’ve seen the amount of kindness and hard work he puts into his job,” Khanna explained. Inspired by the impact Hesselberg has had on the community, the boy started a fundraiser to express his appreciation. With contributions pouring in from residents and patrons, Aarav was able to raise $6,000. When he handed Hesselberg the check, the seasoned pharmacist was visibly moved.
“It’s humbling. I can’t believe it. It’s amazing,” Hesselberg said in response to the unexpected gift. The touching moment was made even more special by the heartfelt words and gestures from those who attended the farewell gathering. Carol Ott, a longtime customer, spoke about Hesselberg’s dedication: “You walk in, he not only greets you by name, but he wants to know how your family is, and how that medication you had last time is working out. And he means it.”
The celebration wasn’t limited to monetary gifts. In a sweet display of affection, a young girl handed Hesselberg a handmade card, a small token of thanks that held deep significance for both the child and Hesselberg. Each person in attendance expressed appreciation for his warmth, dedication, and sincere care, making it clear how much he meant to the community.
Hesselberg’s career has been characterized by his personal touch, a trait that has earned him the trust and affection of countless customers over the years. As he moves to Waltham, he leaves behind more than just a job—he leaves a legacy of kindness and commitment that won’t be forgotten anytime soon.
As the Weston Walgreens prepares to close its doors in mid-November, Hesselberg’s farewell serves as a reminder of the powerful bonds that can form between service providers and their communities. And thanks to Aarav Khanna’s thoughtfulness, “Pharmacist Bob” will carry a piece of his Weston family with him as he begins this next chapter.
