Obituary for Dr. Nadine E. Sabbagh, M.D.

EDUCATION: Nadine attended the Ecole des Soers Franciscains de Marie and the Mere de Dieu academies in Cairo, Egypt for the duration of her elementary education followed by the Sacre Cœur (Sacred Heart) Academy for her secondary education. She was one of the first of ~15 women to complete the full medical (MD) programme the University of Cairo (Kasr AlAiny School of Medicine) and went on to complete specialized training in pediatric surgery through a fellowship at the Cite Universitaire in France. She later returned to Cairo to serve in the Doctors Without Borders initiative and completed a variety of advanced medical training and certifications before being recruited to St. Vincent’s Hospital in New York City for her residency and fellowship in pediatrics and allergy. Ever the diligent student and aspiring physician, Nadine maintained first place throughout her academic path.

PROFESSIONAL TITLES: Nadine dedicated her life to helping others as a physician specializing in pediatrics and allergy. In this capacity, she served the communities at St. Vincent’s Hospital, St. Clair’s Hospital, and the Hotel Union; she also engaged in pro bono rotations at six other local hospitals and clinics across the five boroughs of New York in addition to running her own private practice in pediatrics and allergy.

In the years to follow, Nadine was recruited to work for the New York City Department of Health & Human Services (NYC DOHHS), where she was the first woman to hold each of the following titles: Medical Director of Quality Assurance, Head of STD Control, Deputy Commissioner, Acting Assistant Commissioner. In these capacities she (1) managed the resolution of several major defects in the city-wide healthcare system, (2) created a sustainable checks and balances on examinations and reporting that are still used today, (3) she worked vehemently to the alleviation and rescue of those who had fallen victim to AIDS/HIV, sexual assault, and more, (4) spoke at several elementary and secondary schools as well as prominent colleges and universities to educate youth on preventative medical protocols, etc.

AWARDS: Nadine earned several recognition awards including a special plaque for her outstanding efforts in the medical industry from former President George H. Bush.

FAMILY LIFE: Family spirit, unity and love was a core value in Nadine’s life and the greatest legacy she has imparted to her daughters, Christine and Anne-Marie, and to her grandchildren, Keegan and Zoe. Ever the wise and generous hostess of our hearts, everyone was always made to feel welcome at her table, welcome to confide, and welcome to seek refuge or assistance. Like the widow in Mark 12:41-44, she gave everything that she was, body mind and soul, to the service of her family, friends and the greater community. Through every word and action Nadine truly imparted the values of faith, courage, wisdom and attentiveness in work and in life.