St. Mary’s Healthcare System for Children in Bayside will host its 20th annual Big Hearts Walk, a walk-a-thon to support New York’s most medically fragile children, starting at 10 a.m. on Sunday, May 17.
The walk will take place at Crocheron Park, also in Bayside, at 33rd Road.
This year’s honorees are Lynne Koufakis, a member of the New York State Developmental Disabilities Advisory Council and a passionate advocate for individuals with disabilities and Eileen Alvarez, an experienced pediatric nurse at St. Mary’s, where she serves as nurse educator, mentoring new staff and supporting clinical excellence.
“Through their passion and dedication, Lynne and Eileen represent the very best of the St. Mary’s community,” said Sean Lally, the hospital’s president and CEO. “We are honored to celebrate their contributions to St. Mary’s as this year’s walk honorees and we invite the entire community to join us on May 17th to support and raise awareness about our incredible patients.”
Adults can register on-site for $25 and children for $5. On-site registration opens at 9 a.m. Participants can also register online beforehand at stmaryskids.org/walk2026. People may make donations at the site and also buy raffle tickets for a VIP Mets experience with four great seats for the game against the Marlins May 31. The winner will be announced at the walk.
Family-friendly activities including music, carnival games, arts and crafts and more will follow the walk.