Going the Distance

Meet the WMCHealth staff members who are running in the 2016 NYC Marathon.

Six members of the Westchester Medical Center Health Network (WMCHealth) will run the 2016 TCS New York City Marathon on November 6. Proceeds raised by the runners will benefit WMCHealth’s ongoing mission to provide the finest care available in the Hudson Valley.

Here, the runners explain their personal reasons for participating in the marathon.

Adele Rushneck, RN: Westchester Medical Center “In 2013, while training for my very first marathon, I suffered the sudden and unexpected loss of my dear son. With his passing, I was devastated. After a few weeks of no running and no training, I decided I would get back out there. Running the marathon that year truly was a healing experience for me. Through my loss, I am able to support and encourage my patients and their families. When I run this year’s New York City Marathon, I’ll do so in honor of all the patients who have been treated at Westchester Medical Center and the staff who are so committed to their care.”

Stephen Ferrando, MD: Behavioral Health Center “As the Behavioral Health Center’s Director of Psychiatry, I’m very excited to have the opportunity to raise awareness and promote behavioral health for our patients and our community. While I’m running on November 6, seeing my encouraging friends and family along the route – and thinking of the patients who are helped by the Behavioral Health Center – it will be easy to stay motivated.”

Jean Lavin, RN: Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital “I’m truly honored to run the 2016 TCS New York City Marathon for the incredible pediatric patients and dedicated staff whom I have the honor of working with daily. Nothing is more gratifying than seeing patients and families get well, leave the hospital and go on to celebrate life’s happy moments, like graduations and weddings – some of which I’m honored to have been a part of.”

Marie-Michele Mugnos, Physician Assistant: HealthAlliance of the Hudson Valley “I began running a couple years ago, when a friend encouraged me to participate in a 10K race. I rose to the challenge and have competed in many running and athletic events since, including obstacle courses, swims, climbs and just about anything outdoors. I find great motivation in running for my well-being — to get the most out of my own life, so I have more to give in all arenas. It is both a privilege and an honor to run in support of our patients.”

George Prisco: MidHudson Regional Hospital “I’ve finished seven Ironman triathlon competitions, completing a 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bicycle ride and 26.2-mile (marathon) run each time. I never thought I would run another marathon, but when the opportunity to run in support of our patients came about, I couldn’t turn it down. I can’t think of anything better than to do what I love outside of work to benefit what I love at work.”

Ramon Rivera, MD: Bon Secours Charity Health System “I ran my first New York City Marathon a few years ago. In many ways, I believe a marathon is similar to the journey of many of the patients I work with each day, who are trying to lose weight and get healthy. By running the marathon in November, I hope to raise awareness and encourage people in our communities to embrace a physically active and healthy lifestyle.”

Want to help the WMCHealth team make a difference for patients across the Hudson Valley? Visit www.crowdrise.com/westchestermedicalcenterhealthnetwork to register your support.