Nearly 175 swimmers made a splash at Winthrop-University Hospital’s 15th annual Swim-a-Thon at Hofstra University’s Swim Center. Participants raised funds for the Hospital’s Child Life Program, a program through which certified Child Life Specialists utilize play and education to improve children’s understanding of medical procedures, teach relaxation techniques to help young patients cope with illness or surgery and provide emotional support for the entire family. The 2016 event raised more than $53,000, bringing this event’s total contributions to the Child Life Program since its inception in 2002 to more than $400,000.
Participants enjoyed massage therapy by licensed massage therapist Denise Cooke, RN; live music by Central Beat rock band; crafts provided by Cathy Grossfeld of All about Kids; yoga by Donna Dragani, prizes and more. Saf-T-Swim, Winthrop’s affiliate in swim training, also joined participants poolside.
“We are grateful for the community’s support in making the event such a success, and every lap goes a long way,” said Ron Marino, DO, MPH, associate chairman and director of general pediatrics at Winthrop, and organizer of the annual fundraiser.
