There is no way to tell how many hundreds of times Christine Martin's co-workers in the environmental services department of John Randolph Medical Center have asked her that question in 51 years.

There is no way to tell how many more 'no's they will hear before she decides to retire. IF she decides to retire.

One thing is for sure: She is not ready yet, and her co-workers would not have it any other way.

I'm here to work, and the work ain't done yet," Martin said, at an event commemorating her service March 20 in the medical center's cafeteria.

As one of two John Randolph employees with careers spanning more than 50 years, Martin knew she would eventually have to let them throw her a party. She was told that it would be low-key. She was not told about the red carpet, corsage, plaques, or the banquet spread spanning three tables.

She also was not told about the leadership's decision to re-dedicate a part of the hospital in her name. The well-planned event's only snag involved a seating issue with the table reserved for family members.

Namely, that the table would not be large enough to seat all 75-80 of the co-workers that are proud to call her their own.

Martin said that her love for the people at John Randolph is what kept her coming back every year after starting at 75 cents an hour in 1959.

Nothing stood out to her about her first day, but Martin said that she knew it would be a good fit.

"I liked it, still do," Martin said. "Just getting the work done."

Getting the work done is an understatement. Performance reports dating back to the beginning of Martin's career describe a consistent, professional, dedicated role-model who always takes initiative and never asks for assistance.

Martin's drive and no-nonsense approach can be intimidating for new hires, including the man who became her Department Director, Andy Floret.

"When I first laid eyes on Christine, I had a feeling she would set me straight,and I wasn't wrong about that initial assessment," Floret said.

Chief Operating Officer Edward Littlejohn said Martin continues to be "something of a legend around [the hospital]" and a source of personal inspiration.

"On days when I don't feel 100 percent and it's hard to get out of bed I think about all that Christine does, and tell myself 'stop complaining,'" Littlejohn said.

Martin's direct supervisor, Chris Spratley, said that if he got going it would take all day to list Martin's good qualities.

"She leads by example and she always has," Spratley said. "I've become better because of her."

Martin's influence will outlast her service to the hospital and the people who work there, especially fellow EVS technicians, who will now be taking their breaks in the Christine Martin lounge.