Celebration of Blythedale Raises Record-Breaking $1,000,000

A Celebration of Blythedale, the Hospital's largest fundraiser of the year, was certainly one for the books as generous supporters helped the Hospital raise an all-time high $1,000,000.

More than 220 guests gathered at Brae Burn Country Club in Purchase, NY on November 5 and enjoyed a heartfelt evening honoring Blythedale President and CEO, Larry Levine, who is retiring this year after 26 years of leadership. 

“During his 26 years of extraordinary leadership, Larry has transformed Blythedale, from a respected rehabilitation hospital into a nationally recognized model of pediatric excellence and innovation,” said Board Chair Peter Rittmaster. "Larry, you’ve not only built programs and partnerships, but also a culture — one that believes every child deserves the chance to dream big. On behalf of the entire Board and everyone who has been graced by your vision, your passion, and your unwavering dedication to children nationwide, Thank You. You have inspired change within Blythedale’s ever-expanding walls and far beyond."

Larry’s impact has been felt in every corner of the Hospital and across countless families’ lives. As CEO, he fought to ensure medically fragile children receive the high-quality medical care they deserve. Under his leadership, the Hospital invested $180 million to expand and modernize its facilities, including the construction of a new inpatient hospital, the Steven and Alexandra Cohen Pediatric Long Term Care Pavilion, the Robert Stone Day Hospital, the Stavros Niarchos Center for Speech and Audiology, the Milton Spahn Therapy Village, a new Pharmacy, an expanded TBI Unit, and a new Simulation Lab for parent training. 

Larry also developed numerous transformational programs, including a Health Home care management program, an Assistive Technology Center of Excellence, an innovative Parent and Family Education program, and a free legal clinic to ensure that patient families have access to legal support for issues that impact their child’s health status and well-being.

Larry has served as a tireless public policy advocate, listening to the concerns of parents of sick children, and advocating for federal and state policies to improve their access to care.

Truly, a legacy worth celebrating.

“To say that Larry Levine is leaving Blythedale a better place is an immeasurable understatement,” said Board Trustee, David Pedowitz.

Trustees, supporters, volunteers and staff filled the ballroom, as they brought the Celebration to life with excitement and plenty of fun at the Mission Moment. The paddle raise generated more than $380,000, contributing to a record-breaking total of just over $1,000,000 raised for inpatient services and programs at Blythedale. 

Guests also watched a touching film, "Dream Big, Inspire Change,” which highlights Larry’s legacy and his impact on patients and their families.  

As Larry’s tenure at the Hospital concludes, he expressed gratitude and appreciation to his entire team for sharing his commitment to being a voice for the voiceless.

“I look back with joy and pride for all we’ve accomplished together," he said. "You’ve all meant so much to me, and I look forward to all the vital things each of you will accomplish in the future. 'On behalf of the children of Blythedale', that phrase has been my guiding star, and I am full of gratitude in the ways you’ve made their lives better, and I know you’ll continue to fight for these kids as if they're you’re own,” said Larry.  

Dr. Nathaniel Beers will soon take up the baton, ushering in a new chapter for Blythedale, backed by the full support of his predecessor.  

With new leadership on the horizon, the Blythedale community looks forward to building on Larry’s remarkable legacy.

For more information about this annual event or to make a donation, please contact Special Events Coordinator Toni Marie Favata.  And be sure to check out the video and Facebook album below!