Ruth and Harold Nelkin

Supporting cancer research, now and later

The Nelkin family: Ruth, Harold, Les and Amy

Many of us are touched by cancer. Ruth and Harold Nelkin are helping advance the battle against childhood cancer and continuing a legacy of giving and helping others.

Ruth and Harold were married for 53 years prior to his passing. They have two children, Les and Amy, and two granddaughters, Liana and Lily. Les’ death inspired the family to create a legacy in his honor. “Les would be in favor of our gift and his legacy,” his sister and mother agreed.

Ruth and Harold, who hail from Brooklyn and the Bronx before relocating to Great Neck a half-century ago, began their philanthropy at Northwell more than 30 years ago after Harold, an associate trustee, was treated at North Shore University Hospital’s Greene Emergency Center. Since that time, they funded an endowed professorship, a lab, the emergency department and cancer genetics research. In recognition of their generosity, the Nelkins’ names appear at North Shore University Hospital, Cohen Children’s and the Feinstein Institute of Medical Research. Perhaps most poignantly, the special celebration for pediatric cancer survivors is now the Annual Les Nelkin Pediatric Cancer Survivors’ Day.

Ruth recently expanded her family’s philanthropy to support children and cancer survivorship. She combined two types of gifts — a cash gift today, plus a gift through her will — to establish an endowed fund that will bear her family’s name and provide perpetual support for an important cause. “I want to give something and know the funds are being used now and also provide funds later.” Ruth added, “Otherwise, I have to pay tax!”

A retired stockbroker, Ruth still keeps up with the stock market. She also enjoys playing tennis, going to the gym, playing canasta with friends and going to shows with her daughter, Amy. Northwell is one of her top three charitable causes; she also supports the UJA, National Jewish Outreach and City Center.

Ruth and Harold’s gifts provide key funds for research now and in the future. Their names will forever be linked to research and pediatric cancer survivorship.