"Heart surgery was one of the best things that ever happened to me," said David Letterman, "Late Night" television show host and former NYP cardiac patient. Letterman was speaking at the opening of the new Ronald O. Perelman Heart Institute at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell. The beautiful new cardiac care and patient education institute, located in what used to be the atrium on Greenberg 4, was made possible by Mr. Perelman's gift of $25 million.
Letterman went on to tell the audience, "It takes a saint to do something like this. Ron Perelman has shown us all what generosity is really all about. I was treated for an arterial blockage at this Hospital 10 years ago. I now have a 6-year-old son because of the work and care of the people here — people who have become friends. I'll never forget them."
Ronald O. Perelman
Also present at the Sept. 14 opening was Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg, who described the new facility as "a lifesaving resource to the people of this city." Mayor Bloomberg called Mr. Perelman "one of New York City's greatest philanthropists." He also described Mr. Perelman as a good friend with whom he sometimes enjoys a steak dinner.
Patients coming to NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell for diagnostic treatment and educational opportunities will now enter a new "medical town square," which features beautiful marble floors, new skylights, and a 100-foot-long "history wall" that explains the history of cardiology. The new Perelman Heart Institute will have a special focus on women's cardiac health in an effort not only to prevent heart disease in women but also to ensure that they receive the finest care.
"Women are twice as likely as men to die after suffering a heart attack, so the urgency to offer education and treatment has never been greater," Mr. Perelman said. "It is critical that women's heart health issues receive the attention and resources they deserve."
Dr. Herbert Pardes, president and CEO of NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, reminded the audience of more than 250 that Mr. Perelman's gift is literally life-changing. "One person's generosity can truly impact the lives of countless others," he said. "Think of all the people we will be able to help because of this new institute."
The Ronald O. Perelman Heart Institute will be led by Dr. O. Wayne Isom, the Terry Allen Kramer Professor of Cardiothoracic Surgery and cardiothoracic surgeon-in-chief, and Dr. Bruce Lerman, the Hilda Altschul Master Professor of Medicine and cardiologist-in-chief. Dr. Holly Andersen, assistant professor of clinical medicine, will serve as the institute's director of education and outreach.
David Letterman concluded by referring to Mayor Bloomberg's earlier comment about having enjoyed steak dinners with Mr. Perelman at a local restaurant. "Isn't our mayor terrific?" he said. "It certainly takes a lot of courage to come to a heart center opening like this and talk about the joys of eating steak!" The hall filled with laughter — a sure heart benefit.
Photography by Richard Lobell.