19th Annual 'Big Hearts Walk for St. Mary's Kids' Event Raises Over $165K

QUEENS, NY— A Queens hospital raised over $165,000 to support New York’s most medically fragile children earlier this month.

St. Mary’s Healthcare System for Children hosted its 19th annual “Big Hearts Walk for St. Mary’s Kids” at Crocheron Park in Bayside on May 18.

Hundreds of New Yorkers participated in this year's walk — which honored Kirstin Callahan Austin, Vice President of Helms Auto Group and Claire Mahon, Lead Therapeutic Activities Assistant at St. Mary’s.

The honorees have both made contributions to St. Mary’s over the past several years, going above and beyond to serve medically fragile children and their families, officials told Patch.
The event also included family fun activities, carnival games, a magician, face painting, raffles and arts & crafts for attendees.

“The Big Hearts Walk is one of the most meaningful days of the year for the entire St. Mary’s community,” Edwin Simpser, President and CEO of St. Mary’s Healthcare System for Children, told Patch “It’s a day filled with joy, community spirit, and unwavering support for the children and families we serve. We are deeply thankful to all who took part this year—your generosity helps us continue delivering exceptional care to children with complex medical needs.”

As the only center for pediatric long-term and rehabilitative care in New York City, St. Mary’s has served New York’s children for more than 150 years. More than 90 percent of patients at St. Mary’s require a level of care that exceeds what their families can afford and what Medicaid is able to cover. The funds raised from philanthropic events are vital in helping St. Mary’s change the lives of children and their families.