The Michael Magro Foundation raised $50,000 during the organization's "Evening of Tasting and Giving" held in September at the Woodlands in Woodbury. The event benefited Winthrop-University Hospital's Pediatric Inpatient Center and Cancer Center for Kids.

The foundation honors the life of Michael Magro, a Hicksville student who, after being diagnosed with leukemia, helped other families in medical crises. When Michael passed away in the summer of 2004 after a battle with the illness, his mother, Terrie, created the foundation to benefit the Winthrop's Cancer Center for Kids and Pediatric Inpatient Center, which provided her family with much comfort and support during Michael's stay at Winthrop.

"Our mission is simple - Look to the small gifts that can make a child or family member smile for the moment," explained Terrie Magro. "The strength Michael showed during his illness was an inspiration to all and the motivation behind starting the foundation."

For Magro, donating means honoring the memory of a young man who loved helping others. "He was a wonderful young man, who was full of life, kindness and compassion, and who possessed a great sense of humor," Mrs. Magro said. "Michael touched so many lives during his 13 years.

"My son, Marc, who also is a cancer survivor, my husband, Paul, and I feel very strongly about reaching out in Michael's honor to help others. Wherever Michael can help another child would make him very happy. And, I am deeply touched by how the community came out in support of this special event, which surpassed our expectations. People are still talking about it; they were so thrilled to be a part of the evening," said Mrs. Magro.

According to AnnMarie DiFrancesca, director of Winthrop's Child Life Program, "In just one year, the Magro family has impacted the physical and emotional well-being of many patients and their families. Both centers rely on donations, so their outpouring of support has been a godsend."

Last year, the group, with the help of a local retailer, donated two 27" flat-screen televisions, two XBoxes and a wide assortment of games and DVDs for patients and their families to enjoy. "It gives them an outlet and eases the discomfort," Mrs. Magro explained.

Their support continues. In November, the group donated an HP laptop, HP LCD projector and accompanying software to Winthrop's Pediatrics Department for use as teaching aids by the medical residents. In addition, the group earmarks a portion of funds raised to purchase grocery gift cards, gas cards and entertainment gift cards. Transportation to and from therapy sessions at Winthrop's Cancer Center for Kids is also provided for patients' families, who are in financial need during their child's illness.

"After a stressful day at the treatment center, the gift cards bring such happiness and joy to these young patients and their families," said Linda Sweeney, manager of pediatric specialty at the Cancer Center for Kids. "Mrs. Magro's special donation is truly appreciated because it has further allowed the Cancer Center for Kids to help alleviate some of the burden the children and their families carry."

The Second Annual Michael Magro Evening of Tasting and Giving is slated for Oct. 3, 2006. Those interested in supporting the Michael Magro Foundation are encouraged to contact Mrs. Magro at 935-4510. For more information about Winthrop's Child Life Program, call 663-2761.