Helen Hayes Hospital Foundation Sponsors Gala, Proceeds to Benefit Adapted Sports and Recreation

September 24, 2008

The Helen Hayes Hospital Foundation will hosts its 25th annual Gala, to benefit New York State’s largest specialty physical rehabilitation hospital, on Sunday, November 16th from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Rockleigh Country Club in Rockleigh, New Jersey. The proceeds from this year’s event will support the Helen Hayes Hospital Adapted Sports and Recreation Program.

This year, two extraordinary individuals will be honored with the Helen Hayes MacArthur Award in honor of their tremendous contributions to the rehabilitation field. The award draws its inspiration and spirit from the hospital’s namesake – First Lady of the American Theater-Helen Hayes MacArthur- who served on the hospital’s board for 49 years.

Carolyn C. Zollar, J.D., Vice President of Government Relations and Policy Development for the American Medical Rehabilitation Providers Association (AMRPA) will be honored for her leadership and advocacy in ensuring patient access to high quality physical rehabilitation care nationwide. Ms. Zollar is a strong believer in the importance of effective rehabilitation programs, helping patients return to as full a life as possible. Over a 30-year career, she has been a staunch proponent and tireless advocate for rehabilitation care and providers. She has drafted legislation and bills supporting the rehabilitation industry and has assisted countless rehabilitation providers across the country, providing grassroots support and planning.

Marjorie L. King, M.D, a dedicated, well-loved and respected Rockland County cardiologist will be recognized for her twenty-five years of helping patients overcome cardiac disease. Dr. King has held numerous leadership positions on a local and national level, has promoted standards for cardiovascular rehabilitation, and has served with organizations including the American Heart Association and the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation. She is Director of Cardiac Rehabilitation services at Helen Hayes Hospital and is affiliated with Hudson Heart Associates.

These honorees know well that Helen Hayes Hospital, through programs such as the Adapted Sports and Recreation Program, helps patients explore new activities and return to activities enjoyed prior to being becoming disabled. This is the key to returning to a full, productive and enjoyable life with family, friends and colleagues.

The Adapted Sports & Recreation Program offers a range of competitive and recreational activities to individuals with disabilities, including golf, downhill skiing, kayaking, sailing, bowling, gardening and handcycling. Such activities speed the recovery process, improve and maintain health and conditioning and foster socialization and camaraderie.

The Gala is the Helen Hayes Hospital Foundation’s major fund raising event. Tickets are $250 and opportunities for sponsorship and advertising space in the Journal are currently available. In addition, donations are being accepted for the auction and raffle.

For additional information about the Gala, contact the Helen Hayes Hospital Foundation office at 845-786-4365.