East Meadow Fire Department Brings Gifts to NUMC

Various members of the gathered together on Wednesday to make their annual visit to , delivering holiday gifts to patients as part of their Jimmy Martino Memorial Toy Drive. With Santa Claus leading the group, the EMFD distributed presents to children in the pediatric unit, ICU, burn center and emergency room.

"The members of East Meadow have had, over the years, a great relationship with Nassau University Medical Center, even back when it was Meadowbrook Hospital," said Jim Darcey, member of EMFD Engine Three. "Our children were born here and our parents come here."

The Fire Department began coming to NUMC during the holiday season of 1996 after one of their members, Scott Farber, was injured in an auto accident.

"The care that they gave him overwhelmed our members," Darcey said. "We wanted to do something for all of the children that we saw here at the hospital. We decided to have a fund, raise money and start visiting the pediatric floor." He endearingly called Phyliss Sperr of Rescue Five "Head elf" and explained that she has been helping since this program began.

"I like getting involved," explained Sperr in regards to being part of this project every year. Other members participating this year included Nelson H. Finkelman (Ladder Co. 2), Howie Bartone (Engine Co.2), Diane Tronolone (Engine Co. 4), Tom Callane (Engine Co. 4), Gary Nauth (Engine Co. 2) and Chris Bauman (Engine Co. 2)

Funds for the toy collection are raised every year during the "Mega-Drill," where EMFD members run training drills in addition to sponsorships from local businesses.

As Santa and the EMFD made their way around the pediatric unit, young children peeked out from their rooms, elated that they had a special visitor. Presents had been separated for different age groups, so there was something for everyone. Santa posed for a picture with many of the patients and left gifts outside of the rooms of those on isolation.

Stacey Credendino's daughter, Corrine, had been in the hospital since Sunday. They were excited to have people visiting and bringing holiday cheer.

"Everyone has been so nice," she said. "These little visits get us through the day."

After visiting the pediatric unit, everyone moved downstairs to the burn center to see some of their favorite doctors and nurses. The stop there was welcome as more patients, young and old, were thrilled to see some joyful faces.

"One of our members, Nelson H. Finkelman, is involved with the Nassau County Firefighters Burn Center, so we also make a stop there," Darcey explained.

Walking throughout the entire hospital, Santa received a warm welcome from all. Everyone was happy to see something positive in an environment that is often difficult for patients during the holiday season. 

"The kids love it," Darcey said.