Dr. Win Self Makes $1 Million Gift To Support Valley’s Future

Edward B. “Win” Self, Jr., MD, recalls a piece of advice his father once gave him: Get involved, meet interesting people, learn new things, and find opportunities to make a difference.

A native of Dobbs Ferry, New York, and a longtime resident of Ridgewood, Dr. Self did exactly that. He started his orthopedic surgery practice at Valley in 1977 and served in many roles over more than 45 years.

Raising his family in Ridgewood, Dr. Self lived just half a mile from The Valley Hospital and trusted it to take care of his own family.

“Throughout my life, I’ve had the opportunity to view Valley through many lenses: as a physician; a patient; a community member; and after my retirement in 2008, a Board member,” said Dr. Self, the former Chairman and current emeritus staff member in the Orthopedics Department at The Valley Hospital. “It has always been clear to me that Valley is an exceptional institution, with remarkable physicians, nurses, supporting staff, and leadership who work together to provide the highest standard of care for patients.”

Dr. Self, a current Trustee of Valley Health System, has served on the Board since 2009. With a keen interest in investment and finance, Dr. Self was an asset and a leader on many Valley committees, including the audit committee, quality and patient safety committee, and finance committee, and he chaired the investment committee for many years.

In retirement, Dr. Self divides his time between Johns Island, South Carolina, and Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts.

He loves spending time with family and enjoying the outdoors, fishing, swimming, boating, and playing golf. Despite the distance, he travels to Bergen County, New Jersey, regularly to fulfill his responsibilities on the Valley Health System Board of Trustees.

“When you commit to doing something, you show up,” Dr. Self said. “Valley’s outstanding culture and commitment to the community have made it easy for me to show up.”

Dr. Self has philanthropically supported Valley since 1978. He recently made a generous $1 million planned gift by naming Valley as a beneficiary of his estate, as well as a gift to support The Valley Hospital in Paramus.

As a Lifetime Benefactor at the Gold level and a Legacy Society member, Dr. Self emphasizes the importance of supporting the organization that has meant so much to him for so long and encourages others to do the same.

“As physicians, it is important for us to give back – to the best of our abilities – to the outstanding health system that has contributed so significantly to our community, our patients’ well-being, and our lives,” Dr. Self said.

“Patient care is a team effort, and to provide great care, you need a great hospital. I want to support Valley and give my thanks,” he said. “We’re fortunate to have this top-notch institution in our community, and I’m proud to be able to make this gift to Valley.”