Back to Chapter and Network Home Page Meet our Network Group Leaders  Steve Marpman - Hi! I’m Steve Marpman, from Queens Village, New York.
My initial diagnosis of Marfan Syndrome was made in 1996 when my ascending aorta dissected & ruptured. I underwent emergency surgery to graft the aorta implant a mechanical aortic valve. Since then I’ve undergone a few other aortic surgeries. I’ve also had some hernia repair surgeries. I’ve been involved with the NMF since 1996, following my diagnosis. I’ve participated in several activities related to education and awareness including the Emergency Medicine campaign and presenting to medical students. I currently serve as a Board Director of the NMF and I sit on two Board Committees: Education and Awareness and Support & Volunteer Development. At NMF Conferences, I’ve been a facilitator of various workshops including the Support Group for 20’s – 30’s Somethings, Developing your Emergency Plan, Facing Cardiovascular Surgery, and Facing Orthopedic Surgery. I also assist with the Teen Program. I’m a Social Work Supervisor in a Long Term Home Health Care Program. I have worked in social services since 1992 serving people with mental illnesses, developmental disabilities, physical impairments, and / or the elderly. I spend much of my free time with my girlfriend, Amelia. Some of my / our hobbies include food, drink (beer is good, in moderation of course…), fidgeting with computers & electronic gadgets, road trips, movies, bike riding and lots of other stuff. Most recently, I’ve taken on the task of helping to start up the NYC Metro Network Group with Lisa Ritell. Lisa & I look forward to having an active and productive group, and we encourage everyone to participate to make it fun and exciting.
 Lisa Ritell - Lisa lives in Briarcliff Manor, New York with her husband, two daughters, and their dog. She was diagnosed in 1982 with Marfan Syndrome and since then, has had mechanical heart valve surgery and total aorta replacements. Lisa leads a fairly normal life often with physical challenges. She keeps busy with family, friends, her many hobbies, and organizations.
Contact Information Contact:
Steve Marpman Phone:
(718) 464-5892 E-mail:
srm2@verizon.net Contact:
Lisa Ritell Phone:
(914) 450-4091 E-mail:
LisaRit2@aol.com Description of the Group 
The NYC Metro Network Group is a local meeting of the National Marfan Foundation. We serve members in the area by providing connections with peers, education on the Marfan Syndrome and related disorders, support for individuals and their families, as well as offering ways to reach out and improve awareness in the community. Our focus is currently on - getting to know each other and forming bonds of friendship and support
- developing ideas to promote awareness in our communities, including among healthcare professionals
- compiling a physician & professional contact list, along with a Network contact list
- planning a schedule of speakers who will discuss the latest issues and treatments
Meeting Location 
Hospital for Special Surgery
535 E 70th street
New York, NY
SEE MAP BELOW OR CLICK LINK FOR DIRECTIONS Dates of Future Meetings and Events 2009: Please note that there will be a meeting in June 18th, 6:30 pm. Meetings are scheduled for the 3rd Thursday of every other month. Additional meetings to be added based on group activities Announcements Stay tuned for a schedule of activities, speakers and other announcements! Current Information Please feel free to contact Lisa and Steve with ideas, suggestions and feedback.
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