Genorosity of Larchmont Teen Comforts Children Awaiting Surgery at Jacobi

by Barbara DeIorio

(May 22, 2003) On May 29th, 2003, at 2:00 PM in the Operating Suite of Jacobi Medical Center, a young girl’s generosity will shine as she makes a special donation for children facing surgery.

Gioia Masone, a 7th grader from Hommocks School in Larchmont, NY, and a Confirmation Candidate at Sts. John and Paul Church, has earned the community service hours required as a prerequisite for Confirmation in a unique and special way.

Recently, Gioia read a story which described the many ways in which the staff of the Jacobi Operating Room (OR) works to make the prospect of surgery less frightening for young children. One aspect of this “comfort protocol,” as it has been called, is to encourage the children to look forward to their procedure date as a very special day, one on which surgical intervention will help them to feel better. To celebrate this wonderful event, each child is given a present – a small stuffed animal – in the holding area prior to surgery. Purchased with funds donated entirely from the pockets of generous OR staff members, these animals accompany the children right into the OR and back. The staff has found that the animals invariably provide the children with a great sense of security and continuity, and help to diminish fear.

Touched by the generosity of the OR staff as well as her concern for the children, Gioia decided to help. She consulted with Lu Doyle, the Director of Religious Education at Sts. John and Paul, who helped Gioia arrange a small fundraiser at the Church. Gioia purchased tiny religious pins, which she then sold at a profit after the Masses. Expecting to generate little more than her original investment, Gioia was surprised when she doubled that, earning more than $250.00 for her efforts!

Gioia took her proceeds to Toys R Us in White Plains, and explained her project to the store’s Manager, Greg Muhlig. Mr. Muhlig advised Gioia to select the animals of her choice, and then graciously offered to special order them for her, at cost. Gioia selected over 35 pastel bears and puppies, which she will present to the OR staff in a small ceremony on May 29th.

“Gioia was so enthusiastic about this project,” said Ms. Doyle. “Our pastor, Msgr. Joseph Boyd, and I were impressed with how she worked away for these kids – it was a real “one-girl” mission.”

“When I heard how the Jacobi OR staff works so hard to give children courage in what must be a frightening situation, I knew I had to do something to help,” explained Gioia.

Barbara DeIorio is Gioia's mother and the Staff Writer at Jacobi Medical Center.