It was a memorable night at David’s Country Inn in Hackettstown on October 11, 2023, when donors, sponsors and friends of the Foundation for Hackettstown Medical Center gathered to “shine the light” on Hackettstown Medical Center and two very deserving honorees at the Foundation’s inaugural “Shining the Light” fall social fundraising event.
Attendees celebrated Physician Honoree Dr. Maithili Rao of Atlantic Medical Group’s Advanced Care Oncology and Hematology Associates (ACOHA), and Community Honoree Norman Worth of WRNJ Radio.
Dr. Rao was honored in large part for her and ACOHA’s exceptional patient care and contributions toward growing the oncology service line at Atlantic Health System’s Hackettstown Medical Center in both the Outpatient Infusion Center and the Joan Knechel Cancer Center.
"In Hackettstown, we've discovered that the strength of our team, the unwavering support from this community, and our shared commitment with Atlantic Health System to compassionate care have transformed our dreams into reality. It's a testament to the power of teamwork and the extraordinary heights we can reach when we work together for the greater good,” said Dr. Rao.
Norman Worth has been a member of the Foundation for Hackettstown Medical Center board of directors for 28 years, and a member of the hospital’s board for 29 years. In 2001, the New Jersey Hospital Association named him Trustee of the Year. Since 1998, Norman and WRNJ have hosted the Foundation’s annual WRNJ Radio Auction to benefit Hackettstown Medical Center, raising over $500,000 in that time.
“The support that Hackettstown Medical Center receives from the community is remarkable. And not just financial support. There are so many individuals who have spent sizable amounts of time working as volunteers, giving of themselves, serving on boards and committees, honestly making a difference. I’m proud to be among them,” said Norman.
“We were so pleased with the wonderful turnout and the chance to highlight Dr. Rao, Norman and all the great things happening at Hackettstown Medical Center,” said Megan Sandow, Chief Philanthropy Officer, Foundation for Hackettstown Medical Center. “Thanks to the very generous support from sponsors and attendees, our inaugural “Shining the Light” raised over $72,000 and we look forward to growing this event even more in the years to come!”
The evening included dinner, cocktails, live entertainment, and a silent auction. All proceeds raised from “Shining the Light” will assist in funding new and innovative programs and services at Hackettstown Medical Center.