“The impact of children with cancer being able to attend a place where they can socialize, grow psychologically, and attain academically is truly immeasurable. As a pediatric oncologist, I cannot overstate the appreciation I have for THE MORGAN CENTER. THE MORGAN CENTER has become a key component, and a true partner, in caring for my patients.”
Jonathan D. Fish, MD, Cohen Children’s Medical Center ( )
Testimonials
I am honored and proud to be a reference for THE MORGAN CENTER. I have known this program since its inception. Being a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Pediatric Oncology, I immediately saw the need for children with cancer to be mainstreamed into both the socialization process of education, while experiencing the joys of learning, growing, and achievement. This wonderful program not only gave the children a life experience of normalization, but also gave them the vision of a positive future. Attending preschool taught the children the love of life and the determination to not only belong, but to succeed with all the struggles of childhood cancer. Chemotherapy, surgery, radiation, BMT, hospitalizations, loss of hair, sometimes limbs... Loss upon loss, fear, isolation, and sometimes harsh rejection... All of this heaped upon these young souls. And THE MORGAN CENTER said Come in, you are special and loved. You are now ready for school like everyone else... This center gave birth to hope, not only to the children, but other siblings, parents, and grandparents. This program is a light post that will never go out. Because it says to these children, you are someone who is so special and is the wonder of our future. That you belong and are sacred... This program is beyond school, beyond the walls of a classroom. It shows that life, despite everything, is worth living, and you are the gift of life with honor and heroic status. This little program is beyond words, beyond imagination. It stretches beyond limits and reaches love, dignity, and hope through the eyes of the Heart... Well done, MORGAN CENTER. Godspeed!
Richard Galante, LCSW, MSW, MSED, Cohen Children’s Medical Center ( )
Testimonials
Yesterday was a day of immense gratitude and joy as we celebrated Aiden’s preschool graduation. This milestone is more than just a step in his educational journey; it marks the incredible resilience, strength, and spirit he has shown throughout his time here. At THE MORGAN CENTER, there will never be words adequate enough to express our gratitude for you. We are deeply thankful to the dedicated staff and compassionate teachers who have created a nurturing and supportive environment for all the children. Your unwavering commitment to providing a safe and loving space has been a beacon of hope and comfort during some of our most challenging times. To the amazing teachers, thank you for your patience, kindness, and understanding. You have not only educated our son but also empowered him and instilled in him a sense of confidence and joy. Your care has been a cornerstone of his healing and growth. To the other families who have walked this path alongside us, your support and camaraderie have been invaluable. We have found strength in each other and forged bonds that will last a lifetime. We love each and every one of you and are so thankful for this community. As we look forward to the next chapter, we carry with us the lessons of courage, compassion, and community that THE MORGAN CENTER has given us. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for being such a vital part of our son’s journey.
Nikki, Aiden’s Mom ( )
Testimonials
My name is Molly Guarton, and I am a cancer survivor. At the age of 2 ½, I was diagnosed with leukemia. This year, I am graduating from high school. I am a member of the National Honor Society, the Spanish Honor Society, and I am President of the Tri-M Music Honor Society. I have a 4.0 GPA and have been accepted to many prestigious colleges in their Honors Programs with beautiful scholarships. I cannot emphasize enough how much my early learning experiences at the Morgan Center prepared me for a wonderful and successful school experience when I was older. The Morgan Center set the foundation for my love of learning. When I was just three years old and going through cancer treatment, there was nothing that I looked forward to more than going to the Morgan Center. They welcomed me with open arms and brought light to a time that was otherwise more than unpleasant. It was there that I made my first friends, some of whom I am still friendly with to this day. It was at the Morgan Center where I learned to love books and stories; where I learned to count; where I did numerous arts and crafts activities, where I developed my fine motor skills, and where I learned to sing songs and dance. The Morgan Center is where I took my first school picture….Please know that when you support The Morgan Center, you are doing more than you realize. You are making it possible for kids who are suffering from cancer to have a normal life and a wonderful first school experience. Sadly, for some children, it may be their only school experience. The Morgan Center gives these children the foundation they need to develop cognitively, academically, socially, and emotionally. The Morgan Center is making a palpable difference in the lives of young children battling cancer who will be our future.
Molly Guarton~ Honor Student Morgan Center Graduate 2006 Massapequa High School Graduate ( )
Testimonials
“We are forever grateful for THE MORGAN CENTER giving our daughter a safe place to thrive in person and virtually, and simply enjoy her childhood with learning, playing, holiday parties, birthday celebrations, and so much more. When Olivia could not attend in person, she looked forward to the interactive virtual classes. She got to see her classmates, enjoy lessons, crafts, games, music time, and show-and-tell. Cancer tried to take away her childhood, and because of THE MORGAN CENTER, it couldn’t. THE MORGAN CENTER holds a special place in our hearts.”
Jennifer, Olivia’s Mom ( )
Testimonials
Dear Morgan Center Teachers, Thank you all from the bottom of my heart for your love and support while Peter was in Miami for his liver transplant. The cards, toys, and class activities helped him feel connected to you all. Seeing him smile for the first time post-transplant because of the “months of the year” song brought happy tears to our eyes, all because of you. Your care, dedication, and presence have made a huge impact on Peter and our family. Thank you for The Morgan Center, your mission, and for just being the wonderful people that you are.
Jackie, Peter’s Mom ( )
Testimonials
Dear TMC Teachers, I want to thank you for making Nia's first day of "real" school (in-person) one she will never forget. Nia could not stop talking about her favorite part of the day, which she said was everything! While Nia knows there will not be a party every day at school, she is so excited for the next class! Thank you for the beautiful birthday/Valentine's party. This was Nia's first celebration since she turned one because of COVID, then her diagnosis. She has only known a world with her immediate family and, for the first time, was able to celebrate, play, and learn with children her own age in a safe environment. Thank you again for an amazing day!
Tracy, Nia’s Mom ( )
Testimonials
The greatest benefit of THE MORGAN CENTER is socialization. Just the fact that he can go somewhere. This is a safe place. We see how much they clean. I feel like I have nothing to worry about when he’s here. Anthony is absolutely handling his health issues better being at THE MORGAN CENTER. The experience of being with other kids- he’s never had the opportunity to be with other kids- his overall personality has changed. He has something to look forward to; he has friends (and he’s never had any before). Seeing other kids go through what he goes through just makes it easier for him to deal with. For us, it’s a million times compared to what it does for him. Going through this, you lose touch with friends. They don’t get it, don’t know what to say. Here, with this group of moms, we’ve become best friends, like family; we all just get it. Outside of here, we’ve become so supportive and try to get together.
Stephanie, Anthony G’s Mom ( )
Testimonials
Puts me at ease knowing that Stephanie is able to get out of the house. They were ALWAYS HOME because you couldn’t even take him to the store. Now my wife and son are getting to socialize. THE MORGAN CENTER is keeping our marriage healthy. It gives me peace of mind when I am at work. Anthony is thriving here. There should be one (MORGAN CENTER) in every city. There is such a demand for this type of program. It blows my mind that this is the only place in this day and age that does this. I can’t even imagine.