The fourth annual Cancer Center for Kids Golf Outing, held at the Hamlet Wind Watch Golf & Country Club in Hauppauge on June 16, was a terrific success, raising more than $47,000 in support of vital support programs for Winthrop's pediatric oncology/hematology patients. More than 100 golfers braved threatening skies to play 18 holes for a great cause. Once the final players moved inside for dinner and awards, the sky filled with heavy rain and thunderstorms while the golfers further demonstrated their generosity, purchasing bundles of raffle tickets for donated prizes ranging from gift cards and baskets of cheer to golf clubs, electronics, tickets to sporting events and a beautiful Tourneau watch.

The golf outing also included a putting contest and a hole-in-one challenge in which players had the opportunity to win a lease for a new Lexus, compliments of Lexus of Massapequa. The reception featured a touching video about the Cancer Center for Kids, and heartfelt remarks by Peter Riley of Island Park, in memory of his son Sean, who was a patient at the Center.

The Cancer Center for Kids provides comprehensive diagnostic and treatment options for childhood cancer patients and their families, as well as psychosocial support services to help reduce the anxiety that often accompanies childhood cancer.

The co-chairs chose the psychosocial programs at the CCFK as the beneficiaries of their charity because the Center offers extensive support services for patients and families dealing with childhood cancer that are not covered by most insurance plans. Support groups and counseling for parents and siblings, arts and crafts and horticultural therapy, and a school re-entry program that helps children make the transition back after treatment are among the complementary services offered for free to families by the Center.

For more information about Winthrop's Cancer Center for Kids please call 663-9400 or visit www.winthrop.org/cck. To become involved in the 2009 CCFK Golf Outing, please call 663-3398.