Susan K. Boolbol, MD, and her children.
Susan K. Boolbol, MD, Chief of Breast Surgery at Mount Sinai Beth Israel, along with new TODAY show co-host and breast cancer survivor Hoda Kotb, recently was honored with the American Cancer Society’s 2017 Mother of the Year award at a special luncheon held at the St. Regis New York hotel in Manhattan.
Dr. Boolbol’s daughters, Emma and Mackenzie Boolbol, presented her with the award after reading a witty, rhythmic introduction that chronicled Dr. Boolbol’s life as a devoted mother and busy doctor who loves her work and cares deeply about her patients.
Kathie Lee Gifford, Ms. Kotb’s friend and longtime television co-host, presented Ms. Kotb with her award. Last year, Ms. Kotb adopted a daughter and became a mother for the first time after the age of 50.
According to the American Cancer Society, the annual awards luncheon—now in its 22nd year—has raised more than $5 million since its inception. Honorees are chosen for distinguishing themselves as remarkable mothers who inspire others through their abilities to balance parenting with social obligations, careers, and philanthropic activities. Past Mother of the Year honorees include fashion designers Vera Wang, Tory Burch, and Carolina Herrera, as well as Kathie Lee Gifford herself, and philanthropists Anne and Charlotte Ford.
In her acceptance speech, Dr. Boolbol said, “Before I was a mom, I thought about how much I would teach and inspire my children. The reality is that I am overwhelmed by how much I learn and am inspired by them every day.”