About
The National Legacy Gala recognizes individuals and organizations who have made outstanding contributions to the American Liver Foundation (ALF) and the liver community.
The gala will host patients, families, medical professionals, organizational partners, thought leaders, business visionaries in the healthcare and pharmaceutical industries, and corporations dedicated to helping people affected by liver disease. The evening includes a networking cocktail reception with a unique silent auction, a three-course plated dinner, an exciting live auction and a memorable awards ceremony in honor of our three awardees.
Funds raised through the National Legacy Gala benefit the 100 million Americans affected by liver disease through resources, education and support services and help advance research and our patient advocacy efforts on Capitol Hill.
Gala Chair
Richard J. Miller, Jr Esq.
Liver advocate who received a life-saving transplant in May 2021
LIVEr Champion
Joscelyn Dejesus
At eight years old, Joscelyn was diagnosed with a rare liver disease, primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), which quickly led to her need for a lifesaving liver transplant. Learn more.
2023 Award Recipients
Healthcare Visionary Award: Michael Dowling
President & CEO of Northwell Health
One of healthcare’s most influential voices, Michael Dowling, leads a clinical, academic and research enterprise of over 83,000 health professionals. His leadership has been invaluable to Northwell’s consistent expansion and prominence. In 2020, he successfully navigated the health system through the first COVID-19 epicenter in the US, detailing his experiences in Leading Through a Pandemic: The Inside Story of Humanity, Innovation, and Lessons Learned During the COVID-19 Crisis.
Lifetime Achievement Award: Tom Nealon
ALF National Board Member, ALF National Board of Directors Chair, and Former CEO & President
For over two decades, Tom Nealon has served as a compassionate leader and visionary for ALF providing meritorious leadership to liver patients, families, and caregivers. His passion for the liver community has not wavered from the moment he registered to run his first Boston Marathon in 2002 in support of a young child with Biliary Atresia, during his time as ALF’s National Board Chair or when serving as ALF’s CEO and President.
Leadership Award: David A. Piccoli, MD
Chief of the Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
Over his 40-year career, Dr. Piccoli has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to providing outstanding pediatric care and saving the lives of countless children affected by liver disease. Recognized multiple times throughout his career by “best physician” lists ranging from Philadelphia Magazine to US News and World Reports, Dr. Piccoli has gone above and beyond to ensure the well-being of his young patients.