Pictured from left to right a family member of a patient, Michael Grippo, Suzanne Eigl, and one of the children staying in the pediatric unit. Michael Grippo, Vice President of U.S. Trust Company of New York located at 1581 Franklin Avenue in Garden City hosted a pizza/ice cream party for the children of the Child Life Center at Winthrop University Hospital's pediatric unit on Friday, March 18th. Suzanne Eigl the coordinator for these parties said "Michael could not have been nicer when he was approached to host a party. He has a genuine concern to help these children feel better while they are in the hospital." Michael met with Suzanne, the chairperson for the Pediatric Project of Twigs the auxiliary fund raising group for Winthrop University Hospital and AnnMarie DiFrancesca, the Child Life Program Director to find out more about the activities of the Child Life Center. Michael enjoyed meeting the children who were patients of the center during the party. Mr. Grippo's at ease and friendly manner in the hospital made him a big hit with the children! After the party Michael stated that this was a great way to get involved and brighten up the day for these children.

Suzanne who accompanied Michael to the hospital for the children's party said "the party was a great success and that she is hoping to see many more members of the business community signing up to host these parties." The parties can be on Wednesday, Thursday or Friday nights and last an hour from about 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.. The host provides 3-4 pizzas, soda, and 3-4 gallons of ice cream with cones. This is not a huge time commitment and it gives big smiles to the faces of the children staying in the pediatric unit. Suzanne would like to thank the following businesses that have already signed up to sponsor future parties: Joseph Juliano, Attorney-at-law of Mineola, Kings Supermarket of G.C., Tin Alley Grill of G.C., , Sandra Johnson, D.D.S. of G.C.South, Fidelity Investments of G.C., State Bank of Long Island, G.C. South, Umbertos' of G.C.South. Garden City Pizza of G.C., and Grimaldi's Pizza of G.C..

For more information on hosting a party please contact Suzanne Eigl at (516) 384-4773