Sunset Park
Stroke patients suffering from loss of memory, speech, and motor functions can make a speedier recovery, thanks to innovative new technology at NYU Lutheran funded by a generous donation from the Northfield Bank Foundation.
The bank’s $23,990 grant bought the Bioness Integrated Therapy System — an engaging, electronic, rehabilitative therapy tool combining the latest in touchscreen technology with programming that can improve a range of cognitive and motor functions
“We have various patient populations that can benefit from this technology, and it can be used by different therapists for a variety of different diagnoses,” said Vincent Cavallaro, vice president of neurology and rehabilitation services at NYU Lutheran. “The Bioness system helps with gross motor improvement, eye movement, memory, coordination, and balance.”
Physicians can now closely monitor activity and adjust the program based on the patient’s progress, making it a win-win for borough patients.
“We realize how important this technology is for the people of Brooklyn,” said Diane Senerchia, executive director of the Northfield Bank Foundation. “The need is here and we are invested in the community.”
The best news? Physical therapists, speech therapists, and occupational therapists will soon be able to use the Bioness Integrated Therapy System to help patients recover faster.
Standing O salutes Northfield Bank Foundation and says, “Thanks a bunch for the gift”.
NYU Lutheran Family Health Services [150 55th St. at First Avenue in Sunset Park, (718) 630–7155].
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Sunset Park
Cycle of Life
This onesie has been going strong for a quarter of a century! New mom Monika Rojas completed the cycle of life — at least for infant-wear! — when she passed down the special pink shirt she wore as a baby to her bundle of joy, Jaela, who popped into the world on Dec. 8, 2015 at Lutheran Medical Center.
Jaela, weighing in at 7 pounds 8 ounces, was a perfect fit for the outfit that read, “Life Begins at Lutheran Medical Center,” and which had been presented to Monika’s mom when she was born back in 1991 as a souvenir from devoted staffers.
“It was a priceless keepsake for moms, letting them know that Lutheran is there for them every step of the way,” said registered nurse Diane Koneschusky, president of women’s and children’s services.
Monika’s onesie has been handed down to multiple female newborns in the family, before returning full circle to her own baby girl.
“After me, it was first passed down to my mom’s niece, who lives in the Dominican Republic,” she said. “She was expecting a baby and my mom wanted to give her something special, so she decided to give away the shirt I wore when I was born at Lutheran, believing it would bring good luck.”
Monika was surprised to learn of the jumper’s genealogical journey while visiting her cousin in the Dominican Republic.
“I was surprised to learn that the very shirt my mom gave away to her niece was passed around for so many years in the family,” she said. “It’s a 25-year tradition that started with my mom, and I will be sure to continue the custom.”
Standing O congratulates Monika and her bundle of joy, and gives their famous onesie a well-earned shout-out.
NYU Lutheran Family Health Services [150 55th St. at First Avenue in Sunset Park, (718) 630–7155].
