The Medal of Distinction award given to Robin Roberts, co-anchor of ABC's Good Morning America, more than two million dollars raised and an elegantly decorated ballroom with more than 840 guests were the highlights of the 2008 Lenox Hill Hospital Autumn Ball.

For more than a century, the Autumn Ball has been regarded as one of the seasons most glamorous events, and this year was no exception.

The festivities began with Roberts' surgeon, Dr. Lauren Cassell, who spoke about Robinšs journey through her diagnosis with breast cancer. Like many women, Robin was diagnosed with breast cancer and had to decide whether to keep her problem a private matter or share her journey with the rest of the
world.  It took great courage for her to choose the latter,˛ she said.  As a result women who might not have had a mammogram or followed-up on a possible lump were now able to face their fears because Robin was by their side.

Gladys George, President and CEO of Lenox Hill Hospital and William O. Hiltz, Chairman of the Board along with Dr. Cassell presented the Hospital's highest honor, the Medal of Distinction, to Robin Roberts for her personal strength and courage in promoting early breast cancer detection and treatment.

Ms. Roberts now joins an impressive list of past Lenox Hill Hospital Medal of Distinction awardees including the late Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Beverly Sills, Lena Horne, Neil Simon, Alan Alda, Carol Burnett, Harry Belafonte, Joe Namath, Katie Couric, Whoopi Goldberg, John McEnroe, Tom Brokaw, Julie Andrews, Bette Midler, and Al Roker and Deborah Roberts.

Gladys George and William Hiltz then saluted some of the talented people and exciting initiatives that are shaping the future of Lenox Hill Hospital ­ including a brand new look and corporate identity for the hospital.

Guests then enjoyed a wonderful dinner and dancing to the music of The Deanna Jones Orchestra and were sent home with eco-friendly recyclable gift bags which included copies of Robin Roberts' new book "From the Heart: Eight Simple Rules To Live By" donated by Dr. Cassell and Origins Stress Reliever Serum and Black Orchid fragrance by Tom Ford donated by William & Karen Lauder.

Proceeds from the Autumn Ball, the Hospitalšs largest and most important annual fundraising event are earmarked for the Hospitalšs medical services and community programs.

Please visit Lenox Hill Hospital's web site:

www.lenoxhillhospital.org