The William Floyd High School Medical Club recently made its annual donation to the Child Life Program at Stony Brook Children’s Hospital, continuing a long-running effort to support pediatric patients and their families.
This year’s donation totaled $500 and was presented during a recent club meeting to Michael Attard, a certified child life specialist at the hospital. The contribution brings the club’s total donations to the program to more than $5,100 over the past nine years.
The Medical Club is advised by science teacher Terri Randall and includes students with an interest in medical and health-related careers. Students involved in the presentation included club president Juliana Ruiz, vice president Courtney Petersen, secretary Fatima Hernandez and PALS liaison Elif Akgun.
During the visit, Attard spoke with students about the Child Life Program and its role within the hospital. He explained how child life specialists work with pediatric patients to help reduce stress related to illness, medical procedures and extended hospital stays.
The Child Life Program provides therapeutic and educational support designed to meet the emotional and developmental needs of children in a hospital setting. Services include play-based activities, preparation for medical procedures and opportunities for children to engage in familiar routines that can help ease anxiety.
Randall said the annual donation allows students to better understand the nonclinical aspects of patient care while contributing to a program that serves families throughout the region.
Funds for the donation are raised through student-led activities during the school year. Club members said the project offers a meaningful way to combine community service with their interest in health care.
Hospital representatives thanked the students for their continued support of the program.