Peconic Bay Medical Center has announced a $5 million gift to its cardiac care program from the John and Elaine Kanas Family Foundation.
This gift, among the largest in the hospital's history, will help Peconic Bay Medical Center establish the first comprehensive cardiac program on eastern Long Island, where the seasonal population doubles during warmer months.
Currently, residents and visitors experiencing cardiac emergencies must travel a significant distance for care when needed, the hospital said.
The announcement was made at the hospital's golf classic at Sebonack Golf Club on Monday.
A local, comprehensive cardiac program is needed, said John Kanas.
"During a heart attack, time is life," Kanas said. "If cardiac care can be performed here in a timely way, we will save lives and strengthen the communities we serve."