Christmas comes early for kids undergoing lifesaving treatment

Ronald McDonald House of Long Island in New Hyde Park hosted the annual “Christmas in July” on Wednesday, July 10, delivering toys to the families of children undergoing cancer treatment and other life-saving procedures.

Arranged by the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) Lodge 69 and the Retired Sergeants Association, members of the FOP helped children and families pick out toys arranged on tables in the Ronald McDonald House kitchen.

“It’s amazing to see this generosity — and she loves toys,” said Katrina Dryer, mother of Scarlett Morrison, 7, who was paralyzed from the waist down in a car accident. They are staying at the Ronald McDonald House while Scarlett receives physical therapy. “Anything to make her smile.” 

The Christmas in July event began when the daughter of an FOP member was receiving treatment at Cohen’s Children Hospital, and the family stayed at the Ronald McDonald House, where the care and attention they received made their medical journey easier. Since then, the FOP has worked to support Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) with needed supplies and donations.

“Days like today are really important for our families,” said Matt Campo, CEO of RMHC NYM. “It allows them to step outside the hospital and get a sense of normalcy. It’s just so important to help them step away from all of the stress of caring for a sick child.”

To learn more about Ronald McDonald House NY Metro, visit: www.rmh-newyork.org.