Family, friends, physicians, staff, senior leadership, Foundation board members and hospital trustees gathered on June 17 to celebrate the extraordinary 54-year career of Dr. Lawrence Simon and the lasting impact he has made on generations of patients and families.

The occasion marked the unveiling of the Dr. Lawrence Simon Fund for Surgical Excellence and Patient Care donor recognition wall in the Wound Care Center. Established in Dr. Simon’s honor, the fund supports some of the most vulnerable patients by providing access to complex wound care procedures that are often not covered by insurance.

Thanks to the generosity of many donors, the fund has raised six figures to support this important work. This achievement would not have been possible without the visionary lead gift from Fred and Barbara Berg, whose generosity inspired others to join in recognizing Dr. Simon’s remarkable legacy and ensuring that patients in need receive life-changing care.

Following the unveiling, guests gathered for a special reception and program in the hospital cafeteria. Paul Adler, Chairman of the Montefiore Nyack Foundation Board and Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees, welcomed guests and took attendees down memory lane, reflecting on Dr. Simon’s remarkable career and unwavering dedication to Montefiore Nyack Hospital.

President and CEO Dr. Mark Geller spoke of Dr. Simon’s enduring legacy and remarked that no 54-year career happens alone, recognizing the steadfast support of the Simon family throughout the decades. Among those he honored was Dr. Simon’s beloved wife, Brigitte Simon, whose own legacy of service to Nyack Hospital spans generations. Brigitte began volunteering at the hospital in 1986 and went on to serve as President of the Nyack Hospital Auxiliary. She also managed the hospital gift shop until her retirement. Following the honorable dissolution of the Auxiliary, a celebratory Harvest Tea was held last year to recognize the organization’s many years of dedicated service to the hospital and community. See photos from the event here. 

Dr. Geller then introduced Dr. Jordan Simon, who followed in his father’s footsteps into medicine as an orthopedic surgeon. Dr. Jordan Simon shared heartfelt remarks and announced that another plaque will soon be installed in the Operating Room, where Dr. Simon spent the majority of his distinguished career.

The celebration was made even more special as guests also wished Dr. Simon a happy birthday.

Too often, tribute funds are established posthumously. The Montefiore Nyack Foundation was adamant about honoring Dr. Simon while he could personally experience the gratitude and admiration of those whose lives he has touched. It was an opportunity to give Dr. Simon his flowers today—to tell him how deeply he is cherished, how profoundly he is loved and how grateful we are for his decades of service.

For 54 years, Dr. Simon has healed countless patients, saved countless lives and embodied the very best of Montefiore Nyack Hospital.