MediSys Network News

Jamaica Hospital Celebrates National Donate Life Month

 On Friday, April 30, Jamaica Hospital, in collaboration with the New York Organ Donor Network, celebrated National Donate Life Month by hosting a flag raising ceremony.

The event, which recognized Jamaica Hospital for its continued efforts to save lives through organ donation, was attended by hospital staff and several members of the New York Organ Donor Network.

David Rosen, President and CEO of Jamaica Hospital, and Elaine Berg, President and CEO of the New York Organ Donor Network, spoke of the importance of organ donations and how the two organization have been able to work together to address the organ needs of so many New Yorkers.

“It is wonderful to partner with Jamaica Hospital to recognize the love and generosity of donors and their families who have given the gift of life to many New Yorkers,” said Elaine Berg, President and CEO of the New York Organ Donor Network.

It was Jamaica Hospital’s very own, Dr. Anthony DiMaria, Medical Director of Trump Pavilion, who understood best this gift of life mentioned by Berg.

Dr. DiMaria became a heart recipient two years ago and used the event to once again graciously thank the donor family—Ms. Hilda Rodriguez and Mrs. Ramona Nunez—for allowing him to live to see his daughters grow.  While reflecting on the heart disease he’s had since childhood, Dr. DiMaria spoke openly about being near his death bed.

“I was going out—down to the end when I was informed that I was going to receive a heart,” said Dr. DiMaria. “I’ve said it before but I’ve been given life twice—by my mother and by Ms. Rodriguez.”

Before raising the flag with Ms. Rodriguez and Mrs. Nunez, Dr. DiMaria reiterated the importance of organ donation and the opportunity everyone has to become a donor, and commented on the superior efforts of Jamaica Hospital, who in the past few years, ranked number one for organ donation in the downstate area and received the distinguished Health and Human Services Department’s Organ Donor Medal of Honor.

To enroll in the New York State Donate Life Registry, visit  www.SaveLivesNewYork.org.

Peninsula Hospital Acquires Advanced Cataract Surgery Technology

  Peninsula Hospital Center recently acquired the most advanced state-of-the-art cataract surgery system— the Amo Whitestar Signature Series—along with a new operating microscope live video system.

More beneficial than previous equipment, the Amo Whitestar allows combined computer and surgeon control of energy, flow and suction during surgery. The surgeon uses a foot pedal during surgery, while the computer monitors changes in the eye and makes all necessary adjustments. The video system, which compliments the Amo Whitestar and was donated by Dr. Gelwan, allows nurses to participate in the surgical procedure and OR staff to better anticipate the needs of the surgeon and patient.

“This technology uses less energy to dissolve the cataract and  provides the proper amount of fluid and suction, protecting other delicate parts of the eye,” said Dr. Mark J. Gelwan, Opthalmologist at Peninsula Hospital Center. “With this equipment, we will be able to conduct faster, safer surgeries that yield quicker recoveries and better results.”

Added Allen Corby, Vice President of Operations: “it has always been the mission of the Hospital Center to bring cutting edge technology to the Rockaways and this acquisition is another major step in doing so.”