A Proud Past, A Bright Future: Blythedale’s Spirit Day Brings Joy

The anticipation of the holiday season at Blythedale Children’s Hospital was nothing short of joyful last week. This year’s Spirit Day carried special meaning as the Hospital looks ahead to its 135th anniversary in 2026, celebrating both a proud past and a bright future.

A major part of that future is the arrival of the Hospital’s new president and CEO, Nathaniel Beers, MD, MPA, FAAP. Dr. Beers joined Blythedale last month, succeeding Larry Levine, who is retiring after 26 years of service.

“The reason we can have celebrations like this and be able to enjoy each other’s company and support our patients is because of Larry,” said Dr. Beers. “To celebrate him, the holidays and my arrival are all great things for Blythedale.”

Spirit Day opened on a high note, with Tim McCloone and Holiday Express delivering an energetic concert for patients, featuring holiday classics and special guests including Santa, Frosty the Snowman and the Grinch. The beloved holiday band has performed at Blythedale for more than 30 years.

Wearing matching shirts to mark the Hospital’s historic milestones, colleagues gathered in a show of gratitude and celebration. Reflections and tributes followed during a ceremony honoring Levine as outgoing CEO. State Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins made a surprise visit, proclaiming Dec. 3, 2025, “Larry Levine Day” in New York State.

“Ninety-one percent of kids, despite their medical complexity and social complexity, are able to go home, and that is the legacy I leave behind here and will continue for future years to come,” Levine said.

To close out Spirit Day, Levine joined patients from across the Hospital’s units to illuminate the iconic elephants at the main entrance, an annual tradition that brightens the campus and the hearts of patients.

Watch the video below for a wrap of the day's celebrations as well as click through the photo album!