Amy Hess, Highland, N.Y. --- Running for HealthAlliance of the Hudson Valley, a member of WMCHealth
Amy, a cardiac rehabilitation care manager for HealthAlliance of the Hudson Valley, is taking to heart her participation in the TCS New York City Marathon. “In cardiac rehabilitation, we are always promoting healthy lifestyle changes to maximize recovery from a cardiac event and establishing healthy habits that last a lifetime,” said Hess, a physical therapist for 24 years. “It is a great way to demonstrate that we try to practice what we promote in healthcare, and our commitment to health and wellness for our community.”
Ruth Johnson, RN, Poughkeepsie, N.Y. -- Running for Westchester Medical Center, the flagship of WMCHealth
Born and raised in Nairobi, Kenya, Ruth arrived at JFK Airport in July 2001 with three pairs of pants, $30 and a boat load of hope. She also brought along a life-long love for running. “Running is the major sport in Kenya and we ran a marathon every Friday evening from elementary to high school," said Ruth, a registered nurse in the cardiothoracic intensive care unit (CTICU) at Westchester Medical Center. "I still love to run.” Ruth joined Westchester Medical Center in 2008 as a nurse in the kidney and liver pre- and post- transplant unit and later transferred to CTICU. “I am going the distance for our transplant patients and to help spread awareness on the importance of organ donation,” she said.
Jennifer Mack, MD, Warwick, N.Y. -- Running for Good Samaritan Hospital, a member of WMCHealth
An anesthesiologist at Good Samaritan Hospital, Jennifer feels very fortunate to take care of patients, often at a time of severe anxiety and stress. “It can certainly be stressful," she said. "Running has always been my way to decompress.” Jennifer has first-hand experience with the hospital's quality of care. Her son suffered from hemolytic disease as a newborn, requiring admission to the Regional Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital. “I was so impressed with the wonderful care my son and family received," she said. "He is now a completely healthy, rambunctious two-year-old. I am excited to represent Good Samaritan Hospital and the WMCHealth Network in the 2017 TCS New York City Marathon.”
To make a contribution to support the runners who will “Go the Distance to Make a Difference” for healthcare in the Hudson Valley, click here. All donations collected will support the essential programs and services of the Westchester Medical Center Health Network and its 10 area hospitals.