Monroe Police Officer Gives Back to Hospital That Saved His Life as a Toddler

Monroe Police Officer Gives Back to Hospital That Saved His Life as a Toddler

Childhood Cancer Survivor Hosts Toy Drive for Hospital That Helped Him

Introduction

Nicholas LaFata was diagnosed with Mature B-Cell Leukemia and Burkitt’s Lymphoma at the age of 3 ½ years old in 1997. After spending several weeks on Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital’s (RWJUH) Pediatric Unit, he was released and received weekly outpatient visits. He thankfully achieved remission five months later. Today, at the age of 30, he hopes to give back to the same hospital that aided him as a child.

Christmas in July Toy Drive

LaFata, a member of the Monroe Township Police Benevolent Association (PBA) Local 255, launched a toy drive known as “Christmas in July.” His aim is to bring joy to patients and families at The Bristol-Myers Squibb Children’s Hospital (BMSCH) at RWJUH. Each year, the Monroe police organize a holiday toy drive for BMSCH. However, LaFata realized that children may need entertainment and fun, beyond the holiday season. It was then when he came up with the idea to extend the toy drive over the summer months to help patients and their families.

How To Contribute

The toy drive will go on until the end of the year. The contributions are not limited to toys only; individuals can also provide monetary donations. All contributions can be made at https://www.rwjbhorg/rwjuhtoydrivemtpd.

Beneficiaries of the Toy Drive

The toy drive hopes to assist family members and siblings of BMSCH patients. These individuals spend significant amounts of time at the hospital too, which can be difficult for them. The toys can act as a way of entertainment, relieving stress and anxiety for patients and their family members.

Importance of Donations at BMSCH

BMSCH depends on donations from organizations like Monroe PBA Local 255 to keep the facility stocked with toys and games for patients and their family members. The donations provide an increased level of comfort and pleasure, making the hospital experience more manageable for children. According to Barbara Romito, Director of Child Life for BMSCH, “We rely on generous donations from organizations like Monroe PBA Local 255 to ensure that we have plenty of toys and games on hand for our children to play with during their hospital stay, not only during the holiday season, but all year long.”

Nicholas LaFata’s Passion for Service

Nicholas LaFata’s passion for serving the community played an essential role in the toy drive. A police officer in his hometown and a Law Enforcement Against Drugs (LEAD) officer for district schools, LaFata believes in giving back to the community. The weeks ahead will see Monroe PBA Local 255 promoting the drive on social media platforms while also distributing flyers and spreading the message at events like their inaugural Coffee-with-a-Cop at the WAWA in Monroe on July 16.

Conclusion

LaFata’s “Christmas in July” toy drive is a highly commendable effort that will go a long way in helping patients and families at the BMSCH. It is an excellent example of how one individual’s determination can bring about positive change in society. With the continued support of kind-hearted individuals and organizations, the hospital will continue to provide the necessary care for patients and their families.

Originally Post From https://www.mycentraljersey.com/story/news/local/outreach/caring-communities/2024/07/14/robert-wood-johnson-university-hospital-toy-drive/74341273007/

Read more about this topic at
ANGOSTURA’S ANNUAL CHRISTMAS CHEER INITIATIVE …
‘Shifting Gears for Christmas Cheer’ initiative delivers joy to 800 …

WGN Reporter Mike Lowe Shares Update on Battle Against Colon Cancer

“Non Viral Cancers vs. Oncoviruses: Who Comes Out On Top in Cure Rates”