Nov. 19 was an evening to remember as Greenwich Hospital held its annual gala fund-raiser, which raised nearly $1 million for the hospital’s cardiovascular services. More than 350 supporters, including special guests Jill and Harry Connick Jr., joined in the Parisian cabaret themed festivities at Greenwich Country Club.
At the gala, Greenwich Hospital President Norman G. Roth presented Dr. James R. Sabetta, director of Infectious Diseases, Internal Medicine and assistant chief of staff, with the President’s Award for his many years of dedicated service to the hospital and his outstanding achievement and commitment to his patients.
“With his diverse and multiple roles, Jim plays a critical role in helping to shape all sections of medical services at Greenwich Hospital. His tenacity is renowned. He will often not leave a sick patient’s side until he has assured that every test was performed and the diagnosis confirmed,” said Roth.
Sabetta accepted his award, saying, “I am honored and humbled by the award being given to me. I feel that all I have done is to simply do what I promised to do when I received my MD many years ago.” He continued by sharing stories of patients who touched his life throughout his career at Greenwich Hospital, which now spans over 32 years.
The tribute to Sabetta concluded with a special video message from patient and friend, Glenn Close. Close first sought the care of Sabetta 26 years ago when she was suffering from a chronic condition that threatened her career. She described Sabetta as a “magnificent physician” and noted that she was eternally grateful for his care, brilliance, comfort and friendship, saying “To all those in the Greenwich Hospital community, please take good care of him, because if I’ve learned anything in the last 26 years, there is only one Dr. Jim Sabetta.”
Hugh Hildesley led a spirited live auction that included trips to St. Andrews, Scotland and the beaches of Anguilla, jewelry from Betteridge, and Tiffany & Co., a chance to design your own pair of boots with shoe designer Stuart Weitzman, and a tour of the U.S. Capitol and breakfast with Senator Richard Blumenthal. Following the live auction, guests flooded the dance floor, inspired by music of the Starlight Orchestra.
Greenwich Hospital recognizes the importance of delivering the highest standards of cardiac care by offering a comprehensive range of specialized cardiac services, including screening, prevention, emergency care, treatment and rehabilitation programs. As one of the few providers in the region to offer emergency angioplasty, Greenwich Hospital is an essential community resource when a few minutes could mean the difference between life and death.
