Northwell Health partnered with Americana Manhasset on Sept. 14 for the 25th annual Katz Institute for Women’s Health Luncheon and Fashion Show, raising more than $1.1 million to help provide unique services and innovative treatments.
Northwell’s vice president of women’s health, Dr. Stacey Rosen, said the institute, based at the Long Island Jewish Medical Center in Queens, focuses on a new approach to women’s health, putting women at the focus with clinical programs that are often gender specific.
“Women’s health was somewhat neglected in the past,” Rosen said. “Women’s health care needs are unique … I’m a practicing cardiologist, and heart disease in women is very different than men.”
Rosen said the Katz Institute offers programs for women’s heart health, breast health and reconstructive surgery as well as a resource center and website to help women find appropriate doctors in their community for their needs.
This year, Iris and Saul Katz, longtime supporters of Northwell Health and partners in the creation of the Katz Institute, were celebrated as the event’s honorees.
The fashion show, featuring Salvatore Ferragamo’s fall 2017 collection, put patients at the forefront of the afternoon, telling their stories on a walk down the runway.
“It really brings a face to what the Katz institute works toward and accomplishes,” Rosen said. “It’s kind of amazing to hear the room get quiet when you see a beautiful woman whose cancer or infertility issues or heart issues were treated in a unique way at Northwell.”
Americana Manhasset was one of the original sponsors of the luncheon and fashion show, and Americana Manhasset Retail Division President Deirdre Costa Major said the partnership with Northwell has been a rewarding one for both organizations.
“Northwell Health system is a remarkable facility, and it is part of what makes a very strong community,” Major said. “It’s a community we’re proud of. They are really on the forefront of medical services, and we are happy to support them.”
Major said that most retailers within Americana Manhasset donate items for the raffles along with a $5,000 super raffle from the mall. To date, the fundraiser has raised more than $9.3 million.
“Women are important constituents of ours, and it’s important for them to be healthy,” Major said. “Everybody likes to support a hospital. We all need hospitals at some point in our lives, for ourselves or our loved ones. We want to be there for them.”
