This past weekend was the 6th Annual Parade of Toys for Matthew's Wish. There is truly nothing more precious than a child's wish - something the family behind it all works hard every year to grant.
The simple thought of being home for the holidays is something we all take for granted. Very few of us have to try to bring the holiday spirit to a place like a hospital. In the words of Matthew to his mother, “I know how it feels to be in here Mom, and it sucks!" His Uncle Bobby later said, “Annie [his mom] and Matthew had long talks in the hospital not knowing if Matty was going to make it through his next surgery.” That is why Matthew “wanted to fill up an 18 wheeler full of toys and bring it to the hospital to surprise all the kids.”
Matthew was, “a child that never got to have his wish, but in his honor and from his mother’s pain we are able to put smiles on so many children's faces,” as his Uncle Bobby explained. Perhaps that is the most important thing to remember when thinking about Matthew’s Wish- the journey that brought the family to this annual event.
His Aunt Linda describes as “A kid who loved Christmas and a dream put into action by his mom along with his aunts, uncles and cousins.” Now this little boy’s wish is a community effort to bring joy to the children in the position he was once in. The 13 year old boy’s memory is kept strong and true through the hard work and dedication of his loving family.
It all begins with empty toy drive boxes popping up around Long Island, and ends with BIG smiles. The Brentwood Fire Department joins in the fun the day of the parade along with Santa, Buddy the Elf, and other Christmas favorites. Toys are donated throughout the season, filling each box to the brim. The family then bands together to deliver every single gift they’ve received.
They bring holiday spirit to children at Cohen’s Children Hospital and Stony Brook Hospital every year. What is the best part for them? His mother says, “Being able to fulfill a wish that he was not able to do in his short time here. In doing so, we keep not only his memory alive in such a positive light, but we get to help hundreds of children.”
This holiday season, we can all learn from this family. There are obstacles we face, but there is also always positivity waiting to be found within them. His cousin Terrie reminds us, “We can all get together as a team.” Of course the epitome of ‘team’ is family. That is why Uncle Bobby concludes saying, “We are family, and will always be here for each other.”
And Remember, all of this began simply, “because a BOY HAD A WISH.”
People looking to drop off toys this season can do so until Friday, December 16th at:
Pat’s Marketplace
300 E Main St, East Islip, NY 11730
To follow Matthew’s Wish for seasons to come, like them on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/Matthews-Wish-24683644870...
