The MediSys Health Network hosted its second annual fundraising gala on November 11, 2023. Over 1,200 guests attended the soiree held at the Hilton Hotel in Midtown, Manhattan. The crowd gathered to support the network’s cancer program and honor special guest Robert DeSalvio, President of Genting Americas East, and Resorts World New York.
MediSys Health Network President and CEO, Bruce J. Flanz commenced the evening’s program by welcoming attendees to the elegant affair and thanking them for their support. He segued into a tribute highlighting the countless contributions of two beloved individuals: Joseph Ferrara, former Chairman of the Jamaica Hospital and MediSys boards, and Michael Russo, former Chairman of the Flushing Hospital board. Both served in their positions for over a quarter of a century before passing away this year.
Mr. Flanz’s touching tribute was later followed by remarks from the Gala Committee Chair and member of the Jamaica Hospital board, Joe Liana; who spoke passionately about the important work of the cancer program and the impact it will have in treating the 10,000 people in Queens diagnosed with the disease each year.
The creation of the cancer program in partnership with Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, has provided much-needed care to hundreds of patients since it first opened earlier this year. Some of these patients shared their powerful stories of triumph in a video presented to the crowd. The moving presentation concluded with the cancer survivors thanking MediSys’ healthcare team for saving their lives.
As the video faded in the background, Mr. Flanz thanked the cancer care team and partners from Memorial Sloan Kettering for all they have done to make the program a success.
While much of the network’s success is due to its employees’ contributions, the benevolence of others also plays an important role. One such benefactor is Resorts World Casino New York City, which has generously given to MediSys over the years. Network leadership expressed their gratitude to the casino and its President, Robert DeSalvio, who joined the stage shortly after to accept a plaque that will be placed in the cancer program’s waiting room in his honor. He also commended MediSys’ healthcare heroes for their bravery during the pandemic and their unwavering commitment to caring for the people of Queens.
The second annual MediSys Gala concluded with closing remarks from Mr. Flanz, who encouraged everyone to, “enjoy the rest of the evening” and have a good time with their friends and colleagues. Overall, the event was a tremendous success. Over $2.3 million was raised to help the network continue its important life-saving work.
