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Dr. Leonard J. Levine Continues Legacy of Caring Through Bequest to Orlando Health

"Availability, Affability, Ability"  These were the values that guided Dr. Levine's philosophy, his approach to medicine, and the care of his patients.

Dr. Leonard Levine earned his Medical Degree from the University of Bologna in 1970.  His classes were taught in Italian, which he proudly used as his second language. He returned to the U.S. for his internship at Beth Israel Hospital in Newark, N.J. and subsequently completed his formal training in both General and Plastic Surgery at Orlando Regional Medical Center.  He started his private practice of hand, head and neck, and cosmetic surgery at ORMC in 1977. As his reputation grew, he decided to create the ideal environment for his practice. In 1985, he purchased a large Greek revival home and carriage house at 80 West Gore Street, proudly named Clarendon Place after his mother Clare.  He renovated " his professional home" to include an office, an operating room and a licensed overnight stay facility, the only one of its kind in Orlando.

Len practiced in Orlando for his entire career and was elected Department Chief at Orlando's Lucerne Hospital.  He was a great supporter of Grand Rounds and conferences.  He enjoyed sharing his experience with younger physicians; however, it was his surgical skill, his devotion to his patients, and his genuine concern for others that defined him as a physician. Len was a great listener and had a special ability to connect with others.  The use of his skills as a plastic surgeon to help others feel better about themselves; earned him countless friends and admirers throughout his career and life.

Although he retired in 2008, he maintained his friendships within the medical community.  As he always did, Len went the extra mile and hosted a dinner at his home where he thanked those that helped him during his medical journey.  He continued to take calls from former patients, performed pro bono care for children and remained current in his field.  

Len was proud of Orlando's growth as a medical center and his ability to contribute to its growth. He was happy to be part of such a successful medical community and often expressed his wish to philanthropically support Orlando Health.  He felt deep gratitude for his good fortune of "landing right" in his chosen career.  Upon his passing he bequeathed nearly $1 million to Orlando Health; a tremendous gift further demonstrating his commitment to his community. His gift will impact many areas, including the Surgical Residents’ Education Program. His support of this program will impact the education of physicians at Orlando Health, the medical community of which he was an integral part, while serving as a cornerstone of his legacy.