Staten Island University Hospital Hosts Joyful Holiday Celebration for Kids

Staten Island University Hospital (SIUH) recently brought holiday cheer to pediatric cancer patients and their families through its annual festive celebration. The event, held at the Historic Old Bermuda Inn, transformed the venue into a vibrant winter wonderland, offering a much-needed respite for children undergoing cancer treatment.

This year’s celebration was made possible through the generous contributions of John Vincent Scalia, the proprietor of the Old Bermuda Inn, alongside the South Shore Rotary Club. Dr. Eleny Romanos-Sirakis, the director of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology at SIUH, emphasized the importance of such gatherings. “This celebration gives our patients the opportunity to spend time together with their families and siblings in a space that’s not a hospital or clinic,” she noted. “While our goal is always to provide the best possible medical care, supporting quality of life is just as important.”

The afternoon was filled with festive food, desserts, games, and crafts, culminating in a surprise visit from Santa Claus. Laughter echoed throughout the venue as Mr. and Mrs. Claus engaged the children in a playful snowball fight, tossing soft, fluffy toy snowballs across the room. Such moments provided a joyful escape for children who often find themselves navigating the challenges of treatment and medical appointments.

Adding to the holiday spirit, Amazon played a significant role by fulfilling over 100 individualized wish lists for pediatric oncology patients and their siblings, ensuring that every child felt included in the festivities. Additional gifts were donated by Avery Marder of The William D. Wernicoff Children’s Foundation and the South Shore Rotary Club, further enhancing the celebratory atmosphere.

Dr. Romanos-Sirakis remarked on the overwhelming support received this year, stating, “Every child who attended had a chance to simply be a kid and left with armfuls of presents and lasting memories.” This sense of community and generosity was palpable, creating an environment filled with joy and hope.

Throughout the holiday season, various organizations contributed to SIUH’s pediatric units, donating toys, gifts, and supplies to brighten the holidays for many children. The hospital expressed its heartfelt gratitude to numerous donors, including Rocco Strong, the American Cancer Society, Knights of Pythias, the Bottomless Toy Chest, and several others.

The collaborative efforts of these organizations and individuals exemplify the spirit of giving and support that resonates within the community. As families left the celebration with smiles and cherished memories, the importance of such events in enhancing the quality of life for pediatric patients became abundantly clear.