Helen Hayes Recognizes Extraordinary Patients

The New York State Department of Health’s Helen Hayes Hospital recognized the extraordinary accomplishments of its physical rehabilitation patients during National Rehabilitation Awareness Week at the 126th annual Helen Hayes Hospital Honors Assembly on September 15, 2026. Eight patients hailing from Rockland, Orange, and Sullivan Counties were honored at the inspirational ceremony for their positivity and determination while working to overcome disabling conditions such as stroke, brain injury, and cancer.

Held every year since the hospital’s founding in 1900, the Honors Assembly began as a school graduation for patients who lived and rehabilitated at the hospital. Today, the event has evolved into a moving celebration of patient achievement, as well as of the life-changing power of rehabilitation to restore mobility and independence.

New York State Department of Health Executive Deputy Commissioner Johanne Morne delivered congratulatory remarks to the honorees, applauding the honorees’ outstanding accomplishments and hailing the hospital’s history of excellence in rehabilitative care:

“Today, we are recognizing exceptional patients—individuals whose lives were interrupted, but yet have found a way to create a life as they move forward, she said. “Each of the recoveries requires courage, resilience, and perseverance, and to each of you I offer you tremendous praise in being a model for all of us. It’s important to always recognize each day is not easy, but each day brings with it opportunity.”

“To overcome the hardships the honorees have faced is no easy feat,” State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said. “I am blown away by their individual stories and proud our rehabilitation staff has been able to support them through their journeys. To all the patients and staff at Helen Hayes Hospital, I applaud the hard work and discipline you’ve demonstrated to achieve such incredible progress.”

The 2026 Helen Hayes Hospital Honors Assembly honorees:

Spirit of Achievement Award: Thomas Ryan, New City, NY

Thomas Ryan was a high school junior, star quarterback, and captain of his high school lacrosse team when he was diagnosed with acute B-cell lymphoblastic leukemia in April 2025. Multiple complications from his cancer treatment, including the removal of his right lung, led to a two-week inpatient stay at Helen Hayes Hospital and months of outpatient therapy, where he excelled through his positive attitude and extraordinary work ethic. Through his determination, Tommy returned for his senior year of high school, attended prom, regained his ability to run, and played his senior year of lacrosse, among many other accomplishments. Today, he is pursuing a degree in physical therapy at Rockland Community College.

Pediatric Progress Award: Nechemia Levine, Pomona, NY

At five years old, Nechemia Levine was admitted to Helen Hayes Hospital’s outpatient Pediatric Rehabilitation Program following a stroke that left him with significant deficits on his left side. The now 6-year-old persevered through intensive therapy, relearning how to incorporate his left side into his movements, regain his balance, and resume his independence. Today, he has near-normal strength in his left hand, can walk long distances without losing his balance, and can don his own socks and shoes—a huge and inspirational achievement for our youngest honoree.

Helen Hayes MacArthur Rose Award: Colin Griffith, Blauvelt, NY

Colin Griffith was admitted to Helen Hayes Hospital after a brain hemorrhage and vertebral pseudoaneurysm left him with cognitive deficits and unable to move his left arm or leg. From the beginning, he was determined to overcome every challenge and regain his independence—even asking for additional “homework” after his therapy sessions so he could continue strengthening his abilities. He made remarkable gains during his inpatient stay, progressing from being unable to sit at the edge of the bed to walking and caring for himself independently again.

Continuing Care Cup: Carl Blumstein, New City, NY

Carl Blumstein has been a patient in Helen Hayes Hospital’s inpatient and outpatient programs since 2020, working tirelessly through challenges caused by a heart transplant, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, atrial fibrillation, and diabetes. Despite his long history of health challenges, he arrives at every hospital therapy session or wellness class with a big smile and a pep in his step, determined to persevere with positivity and grace. His commitment to continued progress and his unwavering spirit make him an inspiration to all who know him.

Medal of Independence: Joshua Yanko, Nyack, NY

Joshua Yanko suffered a stroke following radiation and chemotherapy that left him with significant difficulty using the left side of his body. When he was admitted to Helen Hayes Hospital, he needed assistance with walking and all daily activities, but progressed remarkably through intensive therapy, eventually walking with a cane and regaining independence in self-care. Today, he has returned to activities he loves, such as making and selling pottery, and has even picked up new hobbies, including adaptive snowboarding through the hospital’s Adapted Sports Program.