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Janine’s Story: Care Meets Compassion

When Janine was sidelined by a persistent, unrelenting headache, she had no idea it would lead to a life-threatening emergency that put at risk the moments she cherishes most — meaningful days at work, family gatherings, and precious time with her one-year-old granddaughter. Thanks to the expert team at MidHudson Regional Hospital, a member of WMCHealth, advanced imaging quickly revealed a dangerous carotid artery dissection, and she was transferred to Westchester Medical Center for a minimally invasive procedure that repaired her artery and protected her life. 

“My doctor explained everything so thoroughly and made me feel completely safe during such a scary time. No stone was left unturned — the staff was knowledgeable, kind, and treated me like family. Within a few weeks, I was back at work and spending time with my family and granddaughter. They truly saved my life.”

Today, Janine is healthy and savoring every moment with her loved ones — all thanks to the expert clinicians and advanced technology supported by donors like you.

Please give to MidHudson Regional Hospital today!

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More inspirational stories from MidHudson Regional Hospital:

Living Proof of What’s Possible: Alex’s Story of Courage and Recovery

When 14-year-old Alex was struck by a dump truck on a devastating biking accident, his life changed in an instant. Rushed to Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital with life-threatening injuries, his long journey to recovery began under the care of a compassionate team and experts.

Today, Alex is walking again, back in school, and eager to embrace all that 9th grade has to offer. His family is filled with gratitude — for the doctors and nurses who saved his life, and for the donors who make their work possible every day.

“Watching my son fight to walk again was the hardest thing I’ve ever experienced, and I’m deeply grateful to the care team for their support and kindness.”
—Evelys Padilla, Mother of Trauma Warrior, Alex

Every year, thousands of children and adults like Alex find hope and healing at WMCHealth.

As the Hudson Valley’s only Level I pediatric trauma and burn center, Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, and Level IV Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital provides critical care to our most vulnerable patients

The Brenda Fareri Pavilion is the next step in advancing care. This five-story tower will expand adult ICU capacity and support continued growth of pediatric programs, delivering leading-edge care for the region’s most critically ill and injured patients.

This $220 million tower is already rising, with $195 million secured. Your support can close the final gap and ensure every patient receives life-saving care when seconds count — keeping world-class care close to home and bringing the future of critical care to the Hudson Valley.

More inspirational stories from Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital:

Ed’s Story: Healing Happens Here

Ed never expected a day at the Cauliflower Festival to turn into a life-threatening emergency. When he suddenly collapsed, his quick-thinking Margaretville Hospital colleagues stabilized him and arranged his transfer to HealthAlliance Hospital’s Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory, where advanced care revealed a massive heart attack. A stent restored blood flow, and with the support of physical therapy at Margaretville Hospital, Ed regained strength, embraced a healthier lifestyle, and within days was back at work, stronger and healthier than he had felt in years.

“I wasn’t supposed to be here — but thanks to the incredible skill and compassion of my colleagues, nurses, doctors, and paramedics, I have a second chance at life. They treated me like family, not just a patient. After years of caring for others, it’s humbling to be cared for in the same way — and I’ll never forget it.”

Today, Ed is back to the life he loves — healthy, strong, and surrounded by family — thanks to the extraordinary care and generosity of donors like you.

More inspirational stories from Margaretville Hospital:

Laurel’s Story: Restoring Life, Renewing Hope

Repeated episodes of diverticulitis began to take a toll on Laurel’s health, she struggled to enjoy the life she loves — singing with friends, visiting family, and giving back to her community. When a particularly painful episode brought her to HealthAlliance Hospital, a member of WMCHealth, she was met by a compassionate team who guided her through every step and supported her throughout the process.

After reviewing her scans, her physician recommended surgery to finally end years of discomfort. From pre-op to recovery, every nurse, doctor, and staff member treated her with warmth and professionalism. Coordinated follow-up care and physical therapy helped Laurel regain her strength — giving her back the energy to embrace the moments that matter most. 

“If it weren’t for the incredible emergency department doctor and care team, I wouldn’t have known my options. Since surgery, I’ve never felt better — truly 100% again. They gave me back my life and the chance to enjoy the people, places, and moments I love in this beautiful community.”

Today, Laurel is healthier, stronger, and enjoying every moment again — all thanks to supporters like you who make life-changing care possible.

Please give to HealthAlliance Hospital today!

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More inspirational stories from HealthAlliance Hospital:

Gary’s Story: Every Moment Matters

When Gary was suddenly struck by sharp abdominal pain, he had no idea it would lead to a medical emergency that threatened the life he loves — filled with time spent with his grandchildren, rounds of golf with friends, and peaceful walks on the beach. Thanks to the expert team at Good Samaritan Hospital, a member of WMCHealth, Gary received a swift diagnosis and minimally invasive surgery to remove his gallbladder. 

“The care team explained everything thoroughly and guided me every step of the way. I was home the same day and just two days later I was back at work easing into retirement. I can’t thank the care team enough — their support and the advanced technology helped me get back to the life I love, right where I want to be.”

Today, Gary is thriving and enjoying life again — all thanks to supporters like you who make exceptional care possible.

Donate now »

More inspirational stories from Good Samaritan Hospital:

Living Proof of What’s Possible: Fern’s Story of Survival and Gratitude

When Fern Goldblatt arrived at Westchester Medical Center’s same-day cardiac clinic, she never imagined her life would change within moments. A sudden heart attack left her in critical condition — but thanks to the speed, skill, and coordination of her care team, she survived.

Today, Fern calls herself a grateful patient. She delivers holiday treats, hosts pizza parties for the cardiac floor, and visits the staff she now calls family. Her gratitude runs deep — for the doctors and nurses who saved her life, and for the donors who make their work possible every day.

“I’ll never stop giving back, WMCHealth saved my life”.
— Fern Goldblatt, Patient, Heart Attack Survivor

Every year, more than 14,000 critically ill patients come to Westchester Medical Center — the region’s only Level I adult and pediatric trauma center. With ICUs operating at 90–95% capacity, the need for expanded, state-of-the-art care is urgent.

The Brenda Fareri Pavilion will meet this growing demand with 128 private ICU-capable rooms, specialized trauma, cardiac, neuro, and surgical ICUs, surge-ready design, and family-centered spaces.

This $220 million tower is already rising, with $195 million secured. Your support can close the final gap — ensuring that every patient has access to life-saving care when seconds count, and keeping world-class care close to home.

Please give to Westchester Medical Center today!

Donate Now

More inspirational stories from Westchester Medical Center:

Matt’s Story: Strength in Care

When a sudden surge of severe leg pain stopped Matt in his tracks, he never imagined it would become a medical emergency that threatened the life he loves — the work he takes pride in, volunteer roles he cherishes, and the time he spends with his family.

Thanks to the dedicated teams at Bon Secours Community Hospital, a member of WMCHealth, Matt received immediate evaluation and the urgent care he needed. Recognizing the severity of his condition, the team quickly arranged his transfer to Westchester Medical Center. There, advanced vascular specialists performed life-saving surgery that restored blood flow and gave Matt the chance to walk again.

“They made me feel like family. I’ve dedicated years to helping build these hospitals, never imagining I’d be the one needing their care.  I’ll always be grateful they were here to save my legs — and my life.”

Today, Matt is back on his feet and enjoying the moments that matter most — all thanks to supporters like you who ensure exceptional care is available close to home.

Join Matt and show your gratitude at Give.WMCHealth.org/BSCH.

Share your story at InfoBSCH@wmhealth.org.

More inspirational stories from Bon Secours:

WMCHealth Team Runs in NYC Marathon 

A special group of Westchester Medical Center Health Network (WMCHealth) employees, patients, and family members ran the TCS New York City Marathon on November 2 in support of WMCHealth hospitals across the Hudson Valley. The team’s 10 members were all motivated by their own special stories.

Adam Cox, father of six-year-old Christopher, is running for the third year in support of Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital’s pediatric neurology department. Christopher has been under the care of Maria Fareri since he was two years old and was first diagnosed with epilepsy. Cox said he did not expect to run the 26.2 miles again, but fate intervened.

“This sequel was unexpected. I did not intend to make a habit of running 26.2 miles, but then again, I did not anticipate the wonderful experience of being part of the amazing community that is the Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital. And, this year our family once again found ourselves in need of their care and support,’’ said Cox. 

Otto Rene Palao Lopez ran to show his gratitude. Palao Lopez donated his kidney to his 23-year-old son, Otto Jr., who needed a transplant. He praised healthcare professionals at Westchester Medical Center for their compassion and skill. 

“WMCHealth team were like angels in our transplant process,’’ he said. “We are very grateful to God and to this professional team. Running changed my life, and I want to celebrate this miracle by running the New York Marathon.’’

Kelly Peach, a hospital social worker, said she wanted to support WMCHealth for all it does to help families afford medical care. Kelly, who said she is turning 55 this year, said she is running her first marathon for a cause she believes in. 

“I have seen a lot of changes take place in our healthcare system, and one thing I do notice is that it is harder for individuals and families to have access to affordable healthcare,’’ said Peach. She added, “Everyone deserves healthcare coverage, and this is a good cause, so I’d appreciate your support.’’

Other team members in this year’s race were: 

Justin Williams
Jeanne Marie Kolka
Rachel Cross
Marc Stepper
Victor Stevens
Nabeel Ahmed
Juan Trias

Those wishing to support the WMCHealth team can still make their pledges at wmchealth.org/marathon

WMCHealth first started sponsoring a team in the NYC Marathon in 2016, and runners have raised a total of $417,432 for the hospital during that time.

October 2025

Westchester Medical Center Tops off Transformative Critical Care Tower

Valhalla, N.Y., October 17, 2025 — Westchester Medical Center, the flagship of the Westchester Medical Center Health Network (WMCHealth), today held a topping off ceremony to mark an important phase in the construction of its new, state-of-the-art critical care tower that will redefine life-saving care for the Hudson Valley and beyond.

To celebrate the completion of the steel framework, dignitaries, donors, hospital leaders, and staff gathered at Westchester Medical Center for the lifting of the steel beam that was placed atop the five-story structure. 

“Today, we celebrate a milestone — the placement of the final steel beam — marking not just the end of one phase, but the beginning of the next,’’ said David Lubarsky, MD, MBA, President and Chief Executive Officer of WMCHealth.  “At this medical center, we deliver the most advanced, complex care in Westchester County serving more patients than all other health systems combined. This new ICU tower builds on that foundation, reflecting our role as the region’s destination for the most complex care.”

He added, “I want to express my deep gratitude to those whose vision and commitment made this possible: To our patients for continually choosing us to provide our care; Westchester County and the Westchester County Local Development Corporation, The Fareri family, our physicians, leadership team, and staff, our elected officials and our trustees and community partners. This beam symbolizes a collective achievement — the realization of a vision that will define the future of healthcare across our region.”

Currently under construction on the Valhalla campus, the Brenda Fareri Pavilion will be a 162,000-square-foot hub of advanced critical care medicine. Designed for the highest levels of complexity, the Pavilion will feature ICU-capable rooms and flexible, surge-ready spaces to respond to public health emergencies. It will also support world-class patient care programs, including advanced neurosurgery through the region’s most comprehensive Neuroscience ICU and the Hudson Valley’s only Comprehensive Stroke Center. In addition, the Pavilion will enhance a nationally recognized Cardiac Surgery Program, ranked among the top 50 in the United States for patient outcomes, and our Medical-Surgical ICU, ensuring that patients requiring the most advanced care have access to the very best resources and expertise. Construction is expected to be completed in 2026.

After some final signatures were placed on the beam, construction workers lifted it into place eliciting applause and cheers from the audience.  An evergreen was attached to the beam along with the American flag as part of a longstanding custom.

A topping-off ceremony is traditionally held when a building under construction reaches its full height, and the top beam is added. The ceremony dates back more than 1,000 years to when the Vikings would hoist an evergreen tree to the ridge pole in celebration of a completed building.

In addition to Dr. Lubarsky, dignitaries at today’s ceremony were: John and Brenda Fareri, whose family pledged a $5 million gift to support the construction; Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins; Westchester County Board of Legislators Chairman Vedat Gashi; NY State Assemblymembers MaryJane Shimsky, Steve Otis and Dana Levenberg.

The Brenda Fareri Pavilion will cement Westchester Medical Center’s role as the epicenter of advanced medicine in the Hudson Valley. Together with Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital, Westchester Medical Center operates the region’s only American College of Surgeons-verified Level I trauma programs for both adults and children. In 2024 alone, Westchester Medical Center treated nearly 7,000 adult trauma patients, while Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital cared for more than 2,500 children, underscoring the urgent need for expanded critical care capacity.

Beyond healthcare, the Pavilion will also bring significant economic impact, generating millions of dollars for Westchester County through construction and permanent jobs. Additionally, the project will provide free space in the main hospital to offer patients all private rooms, advancing both care and comfort.

Last month WMCHealth announced the public launch of the $25 million “Possible Starts Here” capital campaign to complete construction of the critical care tower. Of the $25 million goal, WMCHealth celebrated several transformational commitments from philanthropists throughout the region.  Strong support has also been received from trustees, physicians, and employees across the network.

Community members are invited to help close the campaign and bring the Brenda Fareri Pavilion to life.
To learn more or make a gift, visit WMCHealth.org/CriticalCareTower or call 914-493-2575.