Student members of the Aspiring Medical Professionals, a new club at Mahopac High School, collected more than 160 toys for children hospitalized over the holidays. The students delivered the toys to Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital in Valhalla on Nov. 20.
During their visit, the students met with several healthcare professionals and hospital staff who provided insight into their careers and the education and training needed to be in their respective disciplines of medical practice. The students met with neonatologists, nurses, nurse managers, music therapists, social workers, finance managers, and the head of the Family Resource Center.
“I have always had a passion for helping others,” said Chloe Lex, a sophomore and Aspiring Medical Professionals club president. “My interest in a career in medicine was solidified when I walked through the doors of Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital and felt the true magic that exists there. Getting to meet numerous medical professionals was a great learning experience and I am so grateful to have been able to bring joy to the children at the hospital through the toys we donated.”
Club vice president and sophomore Lola Mulero said helping collect toys for children hospitalized over the holidays was really important to her.
“I can imagine how tough it is for hospitalized children and their families being away from home and unable to celebrate as they usually would, so these gift donations can help bring a sense of normalcy during the holidays, despite the circumstances,” Mulero said. “I’ve heard about the excellent medical care at Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital, and I’m so happy to contribute to helping these children feel the holiday spirit!”
For Mahopac science teacher and club adviser Jennifer Degl, supporting the children in the hospital for the last 10 years has been a deeply personal mission. After her own daughter spent time in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, she channeled her compassion into brightening the days of young patients and their families.
“We are grateful to all of the students, staff, and community members who donated toys for this wonderful cause,” said Degl, who wrote a book about her experiences called “From Hope to Joy: A Memoir of a Mother’s Determination and Her Micro Preemie’s Struggle to Beat the Odds,” and advocates for neonatal intensive care causes through her involvement in several organizations.
“Stay tuned for additional community-based healthcare awareness campaigns and fundraisers from the Aspiring Medical Professionals later this school year,” Degl continued. “They are an incredible group of young scientists who have big plans for the future.”
In addition to providing the toys to the children, the students participated in the 20th annual 100.7 WHUD Radiothon for the Kids. All donations made during the Radiothon support the lifesaving and life-changing pediatric services the hospital provides to children of all ages.
Article courtesy of Mahopac CSD with additions from Mahopac News staff
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