Chai Lifeline Celebrates Hope and Healing at December 17 National Gala

Rabbi Chaim and Chavie Bruk to receive Champions of Hope Award; Johns Hopkins Children’s Center’s Dr. David J. Hackam to Receive Maimonides Medical Achievement Award

Chai Lifeline, the Jewish community’s leading children’s health and crisis support network, will host its National Gala on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, at Pier Sixty in New York City. This year’s gala theme, “Shining Together,” reflects Chai Lifeline’s mission to uplift and unite all those impacted by serious illness and crisis, from the sick child to every family member and the broader community, providing strength and hope in the face of unimaginable challenges.

Chai Lifeline will honor Rabbi Chaim and Chavie Bruk, co-CEOs of Chabad Lubavitch of Montana and proud Chai Lifeline parents, with the Champions of Hope Award. Based in Bozeman, Montana, the Bruks have dedicated their lives to supporting their community and family. Their personal connection to Chai Lifeline is deeply meaningful: their daughter, Zeesy, was born with a rare genetic disorder that has led to developmental delays and seizures, making her childhood challenging yet filled with hope. Thanks to Chai Lifeline’s unwavering support, including the life-changing experiences at Camp Simcha, a medically supervised overnight camp for children with serious medical needs, Zeesy and the Bruk family have found a transformative source of strength and belonging.

The Maimonides Medical Achievement Award will be presented to Dr. David J. Hackam, Pediatric Surgeon-in-Chief and Co-Director at Johns Hopkins Children’s Center. Dr. Hackam, of Baltimore, Maryland, is a globally recognized surgeon and researcher whose pioneering work in pediatric surgery has brought significant advances in the treatment of complex surgical disorders in newborns. His groundbreaking research on necrotizing enterocolitis has paved the way for new therapies and patents, offering hope to families affected by this devastating illness.

“Our distinguished honorees exemplify Chai Lifeline’s commitment to providing compassionate support, expert guidance, and a vital community to families in need,” said Rabbi Simcha Scholar, CEO of Chai Lifeline. “This gala enables us to come together, celebrate our achievements, recognize remarkable leaders, and renew our dedication to bringing light and hope to families who rely on our support.”

The gala will also feature a special musical performance by acclaimed Israeli singer-songwriter Shmuel.

The Chai Lifeline National Gala is more than an evening of celebration—it is a call to action. Funds raised will support Chai Lifeline’s essential services, including case management, crisis intervention, financial assistance, insurance advocacy, counseling, meals, transportation to medical appointments, i-Shine afterschool programming, Camp Simcha, and more, all offered at no cost to families.

For more information, tickets, or sponsorship opportunities, please visit www.chaidinner.org.