NY Islanders Spread Holdiay Cheer at Stony Brook University Medical Center

STONY BROOK, N.Y., December 15, 2009--  Isaiah Gilliam,  3 years old  from the town of Patchogue, had a special visit from four New York Islanders who delivered  some holiday cheer to him and many other children at Stony Brook University Medical Center.  The Islanders spent two hours on December 9 going room to room dropping off gifts and visiting with more than 30 patients in the Pediatric Oncology, Pediatric Acute, and Pediatric Intensive Care Units.

The holidays are a difficult time for anyone to be hospitalized, let alone children. The Islander players brought joy and hope to hospitalized children, as well as continued their seasonal tradition by purchasing toys and handing them directly to children at the hospital. The players gave children toys, autographed cards, and other gifts. The players also mingled with the children and their families and gave out  free NY Islander Practice Jerseys to the kids.

The special visit was organized though the Child Life Program at SBUMC. The Child Life Program includes professionals who provide therapeutic, educational, and recreational activities to meet the unique emotional and developmental needs of hospitalized children. Activities include medical play therapy, games, arts and crafts, as well as specialized programs such as animal assisted therapy, music therapy, birthday and holiday parties. For more information about the Child Life Program call 631-444-3840.
   
Pictured with Isaiah are Islander players  Frans Nielsen – Forward; Rob Schremp – Forward; Blake Comeau – Forward; Andrew MacDonald – Defenseman.