On National Doctors Day, Make-A-Wish New Jersey and Hackensack Meridian Health celebrate 13-year old Alexander Alvarez from Carteret, New Jersey, who took on the title of doctor for the day as Make-A-Wish New Jersey and Hackensack Meridian Health partnered to grant his wish to become a trauma surgeon.
For a child who has bravely battled leukemia, the last place you might expect them to want to be is back in a hospital. Yet, for Alex, his one true wish was to trade his patient gown for surgeon’s scrubs. Alex got hands-on experience and was immediately immersed as ‘Dr. Alex’ for the day.
The experience kicked off with an exciting arrival at the hospital, landing in AirMed 1,the medical helicopter, which offers vital transport services to patients. From the helipad, he was whisked to meet his medical team from Hackensack University Medical Center and spent time learning vital skills and techniques for various emergency and operating room procedures.He then put those skills to the test in ‘Stop the Bleed’ techniques, and the high-stakes experience of participating in a mock trauma code in a state-of-the-art operating room. Among other lifesaving techniques, he learned to intubate, use ultrasound for internal injuries, and explore the world of robotic surgery. This day was about celebrating a future bigger than his diagnosis, and a passion to one day help others just as his doctors helped him.
His experience culminated with his own white coat ceremony where he was presented with a personalized white coat and stethoscope. A white coat ceremony is a traditional rite of passage for new physicians, symbolizing their commitment to the medical profession. For Alex, this moment celebrates his inspiring journey from patient to future surgeon.
“This wish was about more than wearing scrubs or stepping into an operating room—it was about empowering a child to imagine a future beyond illness,” said Tom Weatherall, President and CEO of Make-A-Wish New Jersey. “Our dear friends Robert Garrett and Jose Lozano, along with their team at Hackensack Meridian Health made it possible for Alex to live out his dream of becoming a trauma surgeon for the day, surrounded by professionals who welcomed him as one of their own. We thank the team at Hackensack Meridian Health for standing alongside Make-A-Wish New Jersey and helping us create an unforgettable day for Alex.”
“At Hackensack Meridian Health, we are deeply committed to transforming healthcare and inspiring the next generation of medical leaders,” said Robert Garrett, CEO, Hackensack Meridian Health. “Alex’s wish to become a trauma surgeon for a day embodies the courage and selflessness that we see in our own dedicated team members every day.”
“To witness a young man who has so bravely faced his own health challenges want to step into the shoes of those who treated him is truly inspiring,” said Jose Lozano, EVP, Chief Growth Officer, Hackensack Meridian Health. “It speaks volumes about the compassionate care provided by our team at Hackensack University Medical Center and our shared mission to improve the lives of others.”
“We are honored to partner with Make-A-Wish New Jersey to make ‘Dr. Alex’s’ dream a reality,” said Mark Sparta, Chief Operating Officer, Hackensack Meridian Health. “This is more than just a day in a hospital; it is about nurturing a passion for healing and celebrating the bright future that lies ahead for this remarkable young man.”
“Alex’s wish is a powerful and moving tribute to the incredible bond between patients and their care teams, and it is the most meaningful gift we could receive this Doctors’ Day,” said Lisa Tank, President and CHE of Hackensack University Medical Center. “His keen focus and positive energy reminded us all why we dedicated our lives to this profession. To see a young man who has faced so much be inspired to one day join our ranks is the greatest compliment imaginable. We are honored to welcome ‘Dr. Alex’ to Hackensack University Medical Center and we are incredibly proud to play a part in nurturing his dream of becoming a surgeon.”