On August 27, Junior at Kellenberg Memorial High School and HLF Young Ambassador, Brody Meserino, visited the Oncology Unit at Northwell Health Medical Center in New Hyde Park, Long Island, where he delivered care packages of goods that he collected over the previous months.
Inspired by a good family friend who is battling cancer and going through chemotherapy treatment, Brody wanted to dedicate his service project to Anthony. Diagnosed with cancer in February and starting chemo shortly thereafter, Brody saw the side effects this treatment was having on his friend and items people were getting for him to make him more comfortable. Some of the side effects he was experiencing included extreme coldness, nausea and tiredness. With this in mind, Brody created an Amazon wish list that included blankets, socks, hats, gloves, anti-nausea lollipops and candies and aromatherapy relief.
Through a contact at Northwell Health, Brody was connected with the head of the volunteer office. Before the Amazon wishlist was complete, he spoke with her to get an understanding of additional items the oncology unit would find useful. In addition to the comfort items, Brody also included lounge sets, as he was informed that some patients go home in hospital gowns because they do not have a change of clothes when discharged from treatment.
In total, Brody delivered 30 blankets, 25 sets of hats and gloves, 10 port shirts, 15 lounge sets, socks and bags of other comfort items to Oncology Unit 8 North. The Northwell team was so thrilled with Brody’s thoughtfulness and kindness, he was immediately offered a highly competitive summer volunteer job.
Written by HLFYA Brody Meserino
