Greenwich Hospital announced that it will honor Dickerman Hollister Jr., MD, at its Benefit on Friday, September 22, 2023. The annual event, which will be held at Greenwich Country Club, will also celebrate the launch of the Campaign for Greenwich Hospital, a multiyear fundraising initiative that supports five key areas of excellence: Behavioral Health, Children’s, Heart and Vascular, Neuroscience, and Oncology.
In 2021, after a 40-year career, during which he treated many local families, even multiple generations, Dr. Hollister retired from Greenwich Hospital with a trove of enduring personal connections with area residents.
“Greenwich Hospital is honored to recognize and celebrate Dr. Hollister at our 2023 Benefit. His breadth and depth of knowledge in cancer treatments are astounding,” said Greenwich Hospital President Diane P. Kelly, DNP, MBA, RN. “During his career, Dr. Hollister embraced new technologies, new treatments, and new approaches — experiencing the power of tremendous advances within the oncology field. While adopting change, he was also steadfast about connecting with his patients and their families – all of whom he considered a friend.”
A hometown hero to many, Dr. Hollister was born in Greenwich Hospital’s former Benedict Building and remained a lifelong Greenwich resident until his retirement. Inspired to become a doctor at only 10 years old, his first experience within medicine began as a teen when he became Greenwich Hospital’s first male candy striper.
During his distinguished career, he served as clinical assistant professor at the Yale School of Medicine, Greenwich Hospital’s chief of staff, chairman of Oncology, and medical director of the hospital’s Hospice Program. He was instrumental in developing Greenwich Hospital’s oncology program and, after the hospital became a part of Yale New Haven Health, grew the program within Yale Cancer Center and Smilow Cancer Hospital.
“Although I am no longer in practice, one never stops being an oncologist,” said Dr. Hollister. “While I am honored for this wonderful recognition, the real honor is helping in any way that I can to assist in the future of Greenwich oncology. We have accomplished much in the past, but that is only an impetus for the future. Cancer care improves every day, and so must we. If we stand still, we fall behind.”
In addition to honoring Dr. Hollister, this year’s Benefit will also mark the public launch of the Campaign for Greenwich Hospital. In 2020 Greenwich Hospital entered the silent phase of this historic multiyear fundraising Campaign to realize critical investments within Oncology, Heart and Vascular, Children’s, Neurosciences, and Behavioral Health. The evening will celebrate fundraising success to date and announce the Campaign goal, while showcasing the science fueling progress within each of these growth areas.
The Benefit festivities will begin at 6:30 pm with a cocktail hour that offers sweeping views at sunset. Guests will then gather under an elegantly decorated tent to enjoy dinner and dancing. Renowned auctioneer and bestselling author Lydia Fenet will serve as master of ceremonies. Entertainment will be provided by Hank Lane Music.
To support the Benefit for Greenwich Hospital’s fundraising areas or to recognize Dr. Hollister, please visit giving.greenhosp.org/benefit-2023.