Borders Books in Stony Brook delivered more than 700 books for pediatric patients to enjoy at Stony Brook University Medical Center. Pictured from left, are: Darla Broberg, Ph.D., of the SBUMC “Living in Love” Bereavement Team; Stacey Becker, General Manager, Borders Books, Stony Brook; Jackie DeStefano, Manager, Borders Books, Stony Brook; Paulette Walter, M.A., C.C.L.S., and Megan Kusterer, of the Child Life Program.

STONY BROOK, N.Y., January 23, 2009 – Borders Books in Stony Brook delivered more than 700 books to Stony Brook University Medical Center on January 21 to help enlighten the minds, touch the heart, and entertain many patients cared for through the Child Life Program at SBUMC. The donation stems from the Borders Books holiday book drive, in which customers purchased the books specifically for the Child Life Program.

The books are for children of various ages, from toddlers to teenagers. Some books for young children include themes on the seasons, animals, and fairly tales. Issues such as end of treatment and bereavement are discussed in some books. There are also books that feature inspiring stories, and others written in the Spanish language. Some of the books are also geared for family reading.

“This is such a wonderful gift from Borders that will greatly benefit so many of the pediatric patients at Stony Brook,” says Paulette Walter, M.A., C.C.L.S., of the Child Life Program. “The books can be used again and again, and for children who find something special about a certain book, the gift is theirs to keep.”

Through the Child Life Program at SBUMC, professionals provide therapeutic, educational, and recreational activities to meet the unique emotional and developmental needs of hospitalized children. Activities include medical play therapy, games, arts and crafts, as well as specialized programs such as animal assisted therapy, music therapy, birthday and holiday parties. For more information about the Child Life Program call 631-444-3840, or online at http://www.stonybrookmedicalcenter.org/pediatrics/childlife/aboutus.cfm.

-30-