Dr. Jesse Taylor, Chief of the Division of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Oral Surgery at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), visited Chai Lifeline NJ this week. Dr. Taylor also serves as Co-Director of CHOP’s Cleft Lip and Palate Program and Craniofacial Program and holds the prestigious Peter Randall Endowed Chair of Plastic Surgery.

A trusted partner of Chai Lifeline, Dr. Taylor has been instrumental in caring for children from Lakewood and has built deep, meaningful relationships with the families we serve. His impact extends far beyond the hospital, making him a steady presence in their lives.

During his visit, Dr. Taylor was welcomed by Chai Lifeline staff and given a tour of both the organization’s current offices and its new, state-of-the-art headquarters, set to open within the next 8–12 weeks. He spent time with staff and reconnected with Chai Lifeline children and families and reconnected with many of the children and parents he has supported throughout their medical journeys.

Chai Lifeline also led Dr. Taylor on a guided tour of the broader Lakewood community, with stops at Dr. Reuven Shanik’s office, CHEMED, Beth Medrash Govoha (BMG), and Hatzolah of Lakewood, offering him a firsthand look at the community networks that support so many of his patients.

“It was a true honor to welcome Dr. Taylor to our building and show him firsthand how his care continues beyond the hospital walls,” said Rabbi Sruli Fried, MSW, Regional Director of Chai Lifeline NJ/PA. “The bond he shares with his patients and their families is something truly special.”

“Dr. Taylor’s dedication to each child is extraordinary,” added Rabbi Yehoshua Brodsky, Associate Regional Director of Chai Lifeline NJ/PA. “Having him here in Lakewood and showing him how deeply appreciated he is by the families he cares for was a true privilege.”