Art Ability's 25th Anniversary Celebration a Big Success!
Held virtually this year as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the celebration included remarks from Main Line Health President and CEO Jack Lynch; Bryn Mawr Rehab Hospital president Donna Phillips; as well as several patients and artist alumni from the show's 25-year history. Approximately 400 guests tuned in and participated.
"Our artists, donors and community members have been so supportive of this program and the hospital for so many years. When we learned our 25th anniversary celebration would need to be a virtual one, we wanted to go the extra mile to ensure we could convey the same spirit of excitement that we've experienced during our on-campus events," said Gaby Heit, curator of the Art Ability program.
Program elements included video messages from exhibiting artists, a message of recovery from patient and stroke survivor Steve Zarrilli and a live painting demonstration with longtime Art Ability artist Sal Panasci. View the live program and check out the many facets of this year's event, including artwork available for sale here.
A total of 111 pieces of art were sold during the event, totaling $46,447 in art sales. Eighty percent of the proceeds from each sale go directly to the artist and the remaining funds are used to benefit Bryn Mawr Rehab's patients and programs.
In addition to art sales, the annual event also raises funds to support of the hospital's top priorities. Sponsors and other donors contributed $138,100 in advance, helping to ensure the event's success. A silent auction generated $23,697. And, as part of a special donation appeal following Steve Zarrilli's patient story, $136,776 was raised in support of a new robotic exoskeleton.
This state-of-the-art equipment helps patients relearn to walk again following a stroke, traumatic brain or spinal cord injury. "These injuries can be debilitating and significantly affect quality of life. Thanks to the generosity of our Bryn Mawr Rehab community, we are now able to purchase this exoskeleton to help facilitate strong patient outcomes and satisfaction," said Donna Phillips. "Our goal is to have two, given the large patient population who could potentially benefit. Each year, more than 2,000 patients choose Bryn Mawr Rehab for their recovery following a stroke, brain injury or spinal cord injury." More about the robotic exoskeleton can be found in the Stroke Specialty article.
The success of the 2020 Art Ability Virtual Celebration is thanks to the outstanding work of the hospital's Foundation Board, along with many philanthropic partners and donors.
Tour Bryn Mawr Rehab
Take a look at Bryn Mawr Rehab Hospital's new inpatient tour video. See what makes us stand out – our state-of-the-art technology, beautiful grounds and therapeutic amenities. All of this contributes to strong patient outcomes and satisfaction.
Bryn Mawr Rehab's Stroke Specialty
Every year, Bryn Mawr Rehab cares for over 600 patients recovering from a stroke. All patients benefit from a highly customized treatment rehabilitation plan by a team of experts, who are among the best in their field, complemented by innovative technologies.
Learn more about our stroke expertise.
Meet Steven Barsamian who came to Rehab following his stroke and get an inside look at some of the finest acute rehabilitation technology available today, contributing to strong patient outcomes and satisfaction.
Season of Giving
During this special time of year, when many focus on their holiday and end-of-year giving, we invite you to make a gift to Bryn Mawr Rehab Hospital.
The hospital continues to grow and prosper thanks, in large part, to its many special friends and donors. Charitable gifts impact all aspects of the hospital, helping to purchase specialized therapy equipment for strong patient outcomes; providing advanced training for our staff of dedicated professionals; jumpstarting new programs like Art and Music Therapy; and supporting community programs like Project SEARCH, an educational and work transition program for individuals with disabilities, among other priorities.
Learn more about ways to give and make a tax-deductible gift, or contact Karen Gadson, Executive Director of Development, at 484.596.5638 or [email protected].
Our best wishes for healthy, safe and happy holidays!