Assemblyman Byrne Makes Rounds at Blythedale

New York State Assemblyman Kevin Byrne (District 94) paid a visit to Blythedale this week for a tour of the 110-bed facility, and to meet with Hospital administration, clinical leaders, patients and their families.

During his tour with Hospital President & CEO Larry Levine and Chief Legal, Planning and Government Relations Officer Adam Herbst, the Assemblyman visited Blythedale's Infant & Toddler Unit, and learned about the Hospital's highly acclaimed ventilator-weaning program from Dr. Dennis Davidson, a neonatalogist and Unit Chief.  He also met with Dr. Kathy Silverman, Unit Chief of the Pediatric, Adolescent and TBI Units, who spoke about the Hospital's dedicated 10-bed Traumatic Brain Injury Unit.  Assemblyman Byrne also toured the Hospital's Therapy Village, home to the largest pediatric therapy service in the state, and the Mt. Pleasant Blythedale School - New York's only on-site hospital-based public school district.

Following a discussion with Hospital leaders on public policy and preserving vital programming for medically fragile children, the Assemblyman visited The Steven and Alexandra Cohen Pediatric Long Term Care Pavilion, where he had a chance to join recreation therapists and young patients during their celebration of "Shark Week".

"Touring Blythedale Children's Hospital was truly an amazing and educational experience," said Assemblyman Byrne. "The care these medical professionals provide is remarkable, and they are making a tremendous difference in treating and rehabilitating children ranging in ages from infancy through adolescence. As several of the patients I met with are from 94th Assembly District, I look forward to working with the team from Blythedale to ensure their continued success in the years to come."

"We are so grateful to Assemblyman Byrne for taking time from his busy legislative schedule to come learn more about Blythedale, and the unique role we play in the continuum of care for medically fragile children," said Blythedale President & CEO Larry Levine. "His background in healthcare administration and personal experiences in the field make him a knowledgeable and important advocate on behalf of hospitals like Blythedale."