Mets make ‘magic’ at Schneider’s

Mets pitcher Mike Pelfrey, infielder Damion Easley, and mascot Mr. Met got some fans smiling and clapping on Wednesday, August 6. But this time it wasn’t at Shea Stadium - it was at Schneider Children’s Hospital in New Hyde Park.
The players were on hand to read the book Hello Mr. Met and visit with the children through the GHI-Mets Magic Program. The program is a partnership between the Mets and Group Health Incorporated (GHI).
GHI Manager of Special Events and Public Relations Denise Shearer, who also helped read the book, said that events such as this help promote healthy living while also giving the children a role model to look up to. She also said that GHI does many other events to show their commitment to children.
“I think when you have player visits or any special events for children it really takes their mind off of their illness,” said AnnMarie DiFrancesca, the Director of Child Life at Schneider Children’s Hospital. “It really kind of normalizes the situation as well as brings a little fun or sunshine to their life while they’re here.”
The children found out about the special visitors that morning. Siomara Franco, a resident of Flushing, said that her 9-year-old son Edwin was so excited that when he had a needle prick on his finger he told her he didn’t even feel it.
“I think it’s something very, very special for him,” Franco said, adding that, although he was sad before, having the players visit made him very happy.
Edwin, who received an autographed hat and pictures, said that the best part of the day was getting his photo taken with the players.
“I was so excited,” he said.
Along with reading to the children and handing out autographed items, Pelfrey and Easley also went to parts of the hospital to visit children who were not able to leave their rooms to attend the event.
“Baseball’s a small part of our lives. There are a lot of people out there who need help and some cheering up and this is our chance to cheer up some kids for a short time,” Easley said. He continued, “To see kids here who are obviously not doing well, it’s very difficult to see. But, at the same time, you want to let them know there’s hope and it helps my perspective as well.”
Pelfrey spoke about taking advantage of any opportunities where he can give back to the community. He also said that seeing the children at the hospital puts things in perspective and “just really shows you how blessed you really are.”
“I think the most rewarding thing is going to be [being] able to see the smiles on their faces…,” Pelfrey said.