Newport Hospital’s ‘A Salute to Health’ raises $1 million

After a two-year hiatus, Newport Hospital’s donor community came together on July 6 at Marble House mansion to support the hospital’s most crucial funding needs. Event co-chairs Holly M. Bannister, MD, Dory Hamilton Benson, Norey Dotterer Cullen, Kimberly Palmer, Isabella Dana Ridall, Maura Smith, and Mary van Pelt designed a beautiful evening that raised $1 million in support of patient care and lifesaving programs while honoring the inspiring life work of longtime friend and ambassador, Mr. David Gordon.

Steeped in history, Marble House was the perfect venue for Newport Hospital to kick-off its yearlong 150th anniversary celebration of caring for its community. Since its 1873 founding as a 12 bed cottage hospital, Newport Hospital has emerged as a regional healthcare leader.

“Our community’s generosity founded Newport Hospital, and that continued generosity has helped to shape us into the award-winning hospital we are today, with advanced specialty services, a state-of-the-art emergency department, and an amazingly talented staff,” remarked hospital president, Crista Durand. “I look forward to all we can achieve in the next 150 years.”

It was truly a special night as the hospital community also honored David Gordon. “‘Inspiring’ is the word I’d use to describe the life work of David Gordon,” said Carol Bazarsky as she honored David for all he has done for Newport Hospital and the community it serves.

Later in the evening, Jeffrey Gaines, MD, MHCM, FACEP, Chief Medical Officer, Vice President of Medical Affairs and Newport Hospital Foundation Board of Trustee, Paul Leys led a spirited fund-a-need auction where guests raised their paddles in support of the expansion of the Norman Prince Spine Institute at Newport Hospital. More than $588,000 was raised to help purchase the Ziehm Curve Navigation technology, described as the “GPS of the spine, and rapidly becoming the standard of care in spinal surgery.”

Having this technology at Newport Hospital not only raises its service to the level of The Miriam and Rhode Island hospitals, but also brings the most advanced spine care to patients across Aquidneck Island, close to home.

To view the video about the Ziehm technology and the difference it makes in the delivery of local care, please click here.

Event Co-Chairs, Kimberly Palmer, Holly Bannister, Dory Benson, Mary van Pelt, Maura Smith, Isabella Dana Ridall. Photo credit Nick Mele
Event Co-Chairs, Kimberly Palmer, Holly Bannister, Dory Benson, Mary van Pelt, Maura Smith, Isabella Dana Ridall. Photo credit Nick Mele
Anne Hamilton and Dory Hamilton Benson. Photo credit Nick Mele
Anne Hamilton and Dory Hamilton Benson. Photo credit Nick Mele

For questions or more information contact Emily Manocchio, Senior Donor Relations Officer, at 401-845-4339 or EManocchio@Lifespan.org.