NY Islander Bruno Gervais with patient Jacqueline Guevara.

STONY BROOK, N.Y., March 5, 2009 – During New York Islander Bruno Gervais’ visit to the Pediatric Units at Stony Brook University Medical Center, Jacqueline Guevara, 10, of West Babylon, told him she wants to be a hockey player when she grows up. Though Gervais came on a cold February day, he warmed the hearts of approximately 20 patients as he talked hockey and sports with them, autographed pictures, and wished each patient a speedy recovery.

Young Jacqueline found out she had more in common with the NHL hockey defenseman than just loving the sport of hockey. Both of them are the oldest in their family, and both enjoy naps. Jacqueline said she takes naps while in the hospital (she was discharged the following day) and sometimes at home. Gervais said he enjoys a brief nap after every hockey practice each morning.

Gervais spent more than two hours visiting one-on-one with patients, who ranged from toddler age to 21 years old. The patients were being treated in the Pediatric Oncology, Pediatric Acute, and Pediatric Intensive Care Units at SBUMC.

The visit was coordinated by the New York Islanders and the Child Life Program at SBUMC. Professionals through the Child Life Program provide therapeutic, educational, and recreational activities to meet the unique emotional and developmental needs of hospitalized children. For more information about the Child Life Program call 631-444-3840, or online at http://www.stonybrookmedicalcenter.org/pediatrics/childlife/aboutus.cfm.