MANHATTAN, N.Y. (PIX11) -- In a heartwarming display of community spirit, the Central Park Precinct transformed into a winter wonderland as the NYPD and Candlelighters NYC Childhood Cancer Foundation hosted a special holiday celebration for children battling cancer.
The event, held on Sunday, saw Santa Claus himself arrive to bring joy to the brave young patients. Among them was Jack, a 5-year-old boy from Sydney, Australia, whose radiant smile lit up the room.
Jack's mother, Jamie Thompson, shared their journey to New York City with unwavering hope. "We're here receiving life-changing treatment at Memorial Sloan Kettering for Jack, he's got neuroblastoma," she explained.
The family's path to treatment was challenging. "We were desperately looking for a solution to make sure we can keep Jack cancer-free," Jamie recounted. Through determination and extensive research, they found hope in New York City's advanced medical treatments.
"Its treatment is not available in Australia, so we decided to come out here and give Jack the best possible chance of the future," Jamie added, highlighting the family's nine-week journey supported by their Australian doctors.
The Candlelighters NYC Childhood Cancer Foundation holiday party offered a moment of pure joy for Jack and other young patients. NYPD officers went above and beyond, bringing excitement to the children with gifts and festive cheer. Jack even got the chance to ride alongside one of the officers on a motorcycle, creating unforgettable memories.
NYPD Detective Luis Morera emphasized the event's importance: "What we try to do is give the families an opportunity to have a real Christmas. A lot of these families are going through a lot of hardship. Kids are going through chemo. The families are going through economic hardship mentally, physically, and emotionally, but we want to give them a chance to have Christmas."
Barbara Zobian, Founder of Candlelighters NYC, explained the organization's mission: "When you're in NYC, they come from all over the country, all over the world for the best treatment for their families. We turn crappy into happy, we just make the kids happier, we give them memories that they can always have".
Jack's treatment plan, while intensive, offers promise. "He will receive ten vaccines over three years. The first four are over the initial nine weeks," Jamie shared, highlighting the advanced care available in New York City.
As Jack and the other children continue their incredible battles, this event becomes more than just a party. It transformed into a celebration of hope, strength, and the magic of the holiday season, providing families with cherished memories during challenging times.
Candlelighters NYC has been supporting families like the Thompsons for the past 17 years. Those interested in supporting their mission can find donation information online.
