Hospital for Special Care

11/27/2025

In celebration of this season of gratitude, we share our deep appreciation for your support of our mission. Together, we are committed to providing the highest quality of complex care that rebuilds lives. Happy Thanksgiving from our community to yours!

11/25/2025

This exhibit features artwork created by patients from units across our hospital. Each piece was made either independently by the artist or with the support of our Therapeutic Recreation Specialists, who adapt techniques to meet individual needs.

Art is an important part of our patient care at, promoting holistic, patient-centered healing. This exhibit not only highlights the incredible creativity of our patients but also raises awareness about the role of therapeutic recreation in health and recovery.

It serves as a reminder that art can be a powerful tool for healing, connection, and self-discovery.

If you would like to view or purchase any of the featured artwork, please contact Olivia at OReed@hfsc.org.

11/24/2025

November is COPD Awareness Month, a time to recognize the importance of lung health and the incredible work happening in Pulmonary Rehab.

While Pulmonary Rehab benefits many people with respiratory conditions, including those living with COPD, this month we’re especially proud to highlight the compassionate care and education our team provides to help patients breathe easier and live stronger.

💙 Thank you to our Pulmonology and Pulmonary Rehab teams for making a difference every day.

11/20/2025

We’re proud to recognize Pamela Held, Director of Respiratory Services, as the first-ever recipient of the HFSC Outstanding Leader Award!

With more than 20 years at HFSC, Pam continues to set the standard for exceptional leadership. Her colleagues describe her as compassionate, innovative, and unwaveringly dedicated to patient care and team success. From driving creative operational improvements to fostering a culture of empathy, growth, and collaboration, Pam exemplifies what outstanding leadership looks like.

Please join us in celebrating Pam for her extraordinary impact on our patients, our people, and our mission. Congratulations, Pam — this honor is so well deserved!

11/19/2025

Meet Margaret, a COPD warrior whose journey shows the power of resilience and support.
After being hospitalized in 2023, she came to HFSC uncertain and facing multiple complications. With the guidance of our doctors, RTs, and care team, she recovered and returned home stronger.

Margaret joined our Pulmonary Support Group, where she learned how to breathe, pace herself, and trust her body again. She says the other patients inspired her every day, and they healed together as a community. 💚

She later joined our Pulmonary Exercise Group and continues to thrive.

We’re proud of you, Margaret. Thank you for letting us be part of your journey.

11/19/2025

Hartford Business Journal has named Crista Durand, MBA, FACHE, Hospital for Special Care President & CEO as one of their Health Care 2025 Power 25. This list of established decision-makers and emerging voices are selected by HBJ's editorial team for their leadership in tackling the ever-changing challenges in healthcare and setting strategy for the year ahead.

Please help us congratulate Crista on this exceptional recognition! https://hartfordbusiness.com/honoree/2025-power-25-health-care-crista-durand/

11/18/2025

Brendan fell gravely ill in 2020, waking from a nine-day coma to learn he had infective endocarditis, was septic and in complete organ failure, leading to a leg amputation. A lifelong hockey player, his determination—and his first words, “Don’t give up my spot on my hockey team”—defined his recovery.

During this season of giving, join us in our commitment to provide best-in-class care through nationally recognized rehabilitation, neuroscience and pediatric services. Your generosity helps us deliver exceptional complex care and give patients a place where their futures grow. Make a gift now: https://hfsc.org/donation/

11/17/2025

Join our Inclusive Recreation Program this Friday night, Nov 21, for an evening of Gratitude & Thanks, Crafts, Games and Fun! Open to participants with a physical disability or autism spectrum disorder, ages 3 to 21. Siblings and friends welcome to attend. Registration required, please contact Janet Connolly, MS, CTRS, Sports & Community Program Manager, 860-832-6220 or jconnolly@hfsc.org to reserve your child's spot.

Join us for an evening of inclusive Gratitude & Thanks, Crafts, Games and Fun!

11/14/2025

Please help us welcome Lucas Benchaya, MD, to our Neuromuscular Center Hebron Campus! Dr. Benchaya brings remarkable expertise to our growing Hebron practice, with board certification in Electrodiagnostic Medicine, Neurophysiology, Neurology and AANEM Certificate of Added Qualification (CAQ) in Neuromuscular Ultrasound.

Being able to provide accessible, timely, expert care can make all the difference in treatment of a life-changing diagnosis. We are thrilled to have Dr. Benchaya join us in our mission to advance neuromuscular care through our nationally accredited Center of Excellence.

Dr. Benchaya is accepting new patients at Hebron. Learn more about his expertise and make an appointment now

Clinical LeadersNeuromuscular Care Lucas Benchaya, MDNeurologist Areas of Expertise Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)Electromyography (EMG)Guillain-Barre SyndromeMotor Neuron DiseaseMuscular DystrophyMyasthenia GravisNeuromuscular DisordersNeuropathyPolyneuropathySingle Fiber EMG (SFEMG) Education...

11/13/2025

Join us for December's Aging and Brain Health Lunch & Learn on Thurs, Dec 4th: Play! Boost Mood and Balance through Fitness. Dorothy Villano, DPT, will present an exploration of cause and effect of muscle atrophy in older adults. Attendees will learn practical strategies to improve strength, balance and overall well-being. Discover how staying active through purposeful play can boost your mood, enhance mobility and support lifelong health.

A light complimentary lunch will be provided, and staff will be on-hand to answer questions and provide tours. Please call 860-827-1958 ext. 3204 to register. Space is limited, save your seat now!

11/12/2025

Trusted Voices, Proven Care. Our Nurse Practitioners are the heartbeat of our mission, providing care that heals, inspires, and empowers. 💙 Thank you for your compassion, dedication, and leadership this and always!

11/11/2025

Today, we pause to honor the brave men and women who have served our nation with courage, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication. Your commitment protects our freedoms and inspires us all.

To every veteran — thank you for your service, your strength, and your enduring example of what it means to lead with honor.