Hundreds of New Yorkers gathered at Crocheron Park in Bayside on Sunday, May 18, for the 19th annual Big Hearts Walk for St. Mary’s Kids, raising more than $165,000 to support life-changing care for some of the city’s most medically complex children.
The walk, hosted by St. Mary’s Healthcare System for Children, is a yearly celebration of resilience, community and hope. The funds raised help support critical programs for pediatric patients with serious medical conditions—many of whom rely on services not fully covered by Medicaid or private insurance.
“This is one of the most meaningful days of the year for the entire St. Mary’s community,” said Dr. Edwin Simpser, President and CEO of St. Mary’s. “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.”
The event featured a family-friendly walk, followed by a vibrant carnival with games, raffles, arts and crafts, face painting, and performances by the NYPD Band.
“It’s an honor to be here playing for all these people,” said Officer Jonathan Perez of the NYPD Band. “A lot of these kids are in tough spots—you know, music heals. If we can give them some joy, that’s what we’re here to do.”
This year’s walk honored Kirstin Callahan Austin, Vice President of Helms Auto Group, and Claire Mahon, Lead Therapeutic Activities Assistant at St. Mary’s, both recognized for their dedication to the hospital’s mission.
For Lana Del Rosario and her family, the event was a powerful reminder of how far she has come since arriving at St. Mary’s in 2020.
“When she was first admitted, she was completely ventilator dependent,” said her mother, Vanessa Del Rosario. “She is now completely weaned off the vents, making amazing progress in all her therapies. We have found a family here within the St. Mary’s family.”
Families who have previously lost children also returned in support. Lukas, who passed away in March 2024 at age 2, was remembered by his mother and grandmother.
“We’re very grateful for all of our friends and family that continue to come down and support us and our warrior Lukas,” his mother said. “This day is so special for so many people. We will continue to be here and support St. Mary’s.”
Since launching in 2023, St. Mary’s Big Hearts Walk has raised nearly $400,000 in support of specialized therapies, long-term care, and early education for children living with complex health needs. The nonprofit operates New York City’s only pediatric long-term and rehabilitative care facility and provides in-hospital, at-home, and community-based services across the boroughs.
Chris, the father of a young patient named Olivia, shared how much the school and hospital have meant to their family.
“This is our first year, and we’re just glad to be out here to support,” he said. “My daughter’s been attending the school here for two years. Through the therapies and disciplines, she’s seen a lot of great progress. It’s been very helpful.”
Four-year-old Reese, who has a rare neurological disorder, began preschool at St. Mary’s last fall. Her mother, Marisa, said the transformation has been remarkable.
“She’s progressed so much in her motor skills, her speech, her communication, and her eating. It’s been such a great experience for her,” she said. “We’re so excited for the next year and a half.”
As Dr. Simpser reminded attendees: “St. Mary’s is one of the few organizations that are able to care for some of the sickest children in New York. It’s wonderful to see this amount of support to help us do the work that we do.”
