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October
27, 2003
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HACKENSACK UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER RAISES $1.3 MILLION AT ‘AN EVENING AT CENTRAL PARK ZOO’ More than 1,100 guests took a walk on the wild side at Hackensack University Medical Center’s annual event. “An Evening at Central Park Zoo” raised $1.3 million for women’s and children’s services at HUMC. “Tonight we are gathered in this unique location in one of the most beautiful parks in the world to support what we believe is a healthcare institution like no other,” said John P. Ferguson, president and chief executive officer of Hackensack University Medical Center. “All of us at Hackensack University Medical Center are truly grateful for the exceptional group of friends and supporters who not only make this event such a success, but support us in so many of our endeavors throughout the year.” As he has for the last ten years, Mark Schlesinger, M.D. of Wyckoff, chairman, Department of Anesthesiology and Event Chairman, planned the black-tie-affair. Guests enjoyed the sights and sounds of one of the world’s most famous zoos as they mingled under the Manhattan sky. From polar bears to penguins, partygoers found one surprise after another as they traversed this legendary landmark which sees nearly one million visitors each year. “Tonight is a statement of what we’re about – and we’re about doing everything the best, ” said Dr. Schlesinger. “But tonight is really about drawing attention to what we really do which is provide excellent healthcare to the tri-state area.” This year’s journal co-chairmen were Stephen Colen, M.D. of Manhattan, chairman, Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Ihor Sawczuk, M.D., of Rockleigh, chairman, Department of Urology. This year’s 50/50 raffle was won by Anne and John Bivona. Mr. Bivona, who is the co-president of The Tomorrows Children’s Fund (TCF), donated the $50,000 in winnings back to TCF, The Hackensack University Medical Center Foundation, The CJ Foundation for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, and The Imus Ranch. Samuel Toscano, Jr., of Hackensack, chairman, HUMC’s Board of Governors, thanked the attendees on behalf of his fellow board members. “At Hackensack University Medical Center we are always growing,” said Mr. Toscano. “Events like this help the medical center move forward in the direction of even greater healthcare. ” Along with the numerous zoo exhibits guests could also take in the sights and sounds of performers and musicians who lent an air of sophisticated fun to the evening. Acrobats and sword swallowers shared the spotlight with performance artists/ice sculputors Fear No Ice and the Chris Washburne Afro Cuban Beat Band. On the main stage guests could feast their eyes on unique acts like Silk Hammock and Anti-Gravity Boots. “Every event we have ever had has been exciting. This is even more exciting because this venue is so different,” said George T. Croonquist of Hackensack, chairman, HUMC’s Foundation Board. “Tonight’s event gives us an opportunity to raise funds that will be devoted to our new women’s and children’s pavilion.” The Sarkis Gabrellian Women’s and Children’s Pavilion is now under construction at Hackensack University Medical Center. When completed in late 2005, the 300,000 square foot pavilion will house The Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital, The Women’s Hospital, and the Mark Messier Skyway for Tomorrows Children. The total cost of the project will be $117 million, with $50 million coming through the Hackensack University Medical Center Foundation in the form of philanthropic gifts. In keeping with its tradition as the largest supporter of the medical center, The Tomorrows Children's Fund has made the largest donation to the new pavilion. The inpatient division of The Tomorrows Children's Institute for Cancer and Blood Disorders will move from its current location to a new and expanded unit in the women's and children's pavilion which will ultimately be comprised of 28 beds including 19 pediatric oncology beds and nine beds dedicated to pediatric bone marrow transplant patients. The area will house all private rooms; private baths; beds for parents; computer stations; playrooms; and solariums. The Tomorrows Children's Institute patients will also use other services available in the children's hospital on a regular basis including the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit and a separate Emergency Department. The Auxiliary will help support this new, state-of-the-art Pediatric Emergency Department. Designed with input from patients and their families, amenities of the new pavilion will include two separate and distinct lobbies for each of the hospitals; a two-story atrium; a total of 192 spacious, beautifully appointed private patient rooms; and on-site dining facilities offering custom-order room service throughout the entire pavilion. A recent mom, herself, actress Brooke Shields was also on hand for the evening at Central Park Zoo and had high praise for the medical center. “This event tonight is truly inspiring not only because of the incredible work you do at Hackensack University Medical Center but because of the way you do it,” Ms. Shields said. |
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