Frank P. Long Intermediate School student Colton Leest delivered 1,500 get-well cards to patients at Stony Brook Children’s Hospital as part of his Cards by Colton initiative, according to a May 8 announcement.
Leest’s project is aimed at bringing encouragement and comfort to children in the hospital. The effort involved classmates and teachers who helped create the handmade cards with personal messages for each recipient.
Leest began distributing cards when he was in second grade after being inspired by his brother Ethan, who cannot walk or speak. He started Cards by Colton to help brighten the days of children facing similar health challenges.
Beyond this initiative, Leest is active in his school community through participation in student council and the Ambassadors Club. He also plays piano and trumpet—having participated in NYSSMA for both instruments—and has earned a green belt in karate.
Looking ahead, Leest plans to continue expanding Cards by Colton with more community service projects. He said the work is meaningful because he enjoys seeing smiles on children’s faces when they receive the cards.