ATDC - Association for Technology Dependent Children Angela's House
  Residential Services for Medically Fragile Children
Coordination of Complex Home Care Services

In the News >> Newsletter

Fall 2007 Edition
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Message from the Executive Director Bob Policastro

As I sit to write this note, I recall 18 years ago when my wife and I were in the hospital faced with the devastation of watching over our frail daughter Angela who was lying in front of us not knowing what to do, and a strong feeling of being alone. This is why when I see the people and organizations in this newsletter that have voluntarily stepped up to help us, it is just amazing.

I want our parents of ATDC and Angela's House to feel and see how the community around them cares. It is a dream come true to see the support in our community growing for families of children with special health care needs that are medically frail, chronically ill or living with a life threatening illness. We continue to help over 300 children and families each year. Things have come a long way since I first started advocating for my daughter. I am grateful to see how things have improved but I realize that the current programs and supports still fall short as we try to help each family. It is as frustrating for us as it is for the families because there is nothing we want more than a family that can find some peace in their difficult situation.

I am hopeful that when you read the plight of Isabella's family on the first page that you may understand what this family is feeling. It is frustrating for us to see the slow progress in the development of Angela's House III.

The Angel of Hope statue to memorialize all children that have passed away on Long Island continues to be stalled. We originally hoped to put it on Suffolk County property but were turned down leaving us with currently no good alternatives.

If you have any suggestions or a Child you feel deserves to be part of this memorial please contact us.

As the year comes to an end I reflect on our 15th year Anniversary and my appreciation for all the support that has been extended to our children and their families. I also praise the great staff of ATDC and Angela's House that give of their heart and soul each day for our special children and their families.

"Wishing you a Happy and Healthy New Year."

Thanks to Our Supporters

Jay D'Agostino and William Iaia did a bike ride from Florida to New York to fundraise and bring awareness to medically frail children. New York's Finest escorted them from the city to Long Island.

Cathal J. Scott Surf Casting Tournament and Dinner graciously offered the proceeds of their event to us. Kieran Scott (second from right) is Cathal's brother and chairperson of this event. Assemblyman Harvey Weisenberg, center, who was very instrumental in helping to create Angela's House.

MusiCare for Kids a group of six students did a fundraiser to benefit Angela's House.

The nurses of St. Catherine's of Siena of Smithtown did a fund raiser for Angela’s House during Nurses Week. The hospital's administration graciously matched the nurse's effort.

Smithtown Chamber of Commerce held its second annual Running of the Bull. We are proud to receive some of the proceeds from this event.

Doug Garvey and Michael Lo Russo from the Stonebridge Thursday Golf League held a fundraiser benefiting Angela's House.

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