Young adult patients in a day program at St. Mary’s Hospital for Children in Bayside participated in the facility’s second annual Prom on Wednesday, Aug. 28th.
Like a typical Prom, the event featured a DJ, dancing and a photo booth enjoyed by dozens of patients dressed up for the occasion.
The Medical Day Healthcare Program at St. Mary’s provides their young adult patients with cognitive and physical disabilities with more than daily therapeutic and rehabilitation services. The program, which serves teens and young adults up to thirty, also facilitates fun social activities necessary for their quality of life.
Staff members say that the annual prom is one way the program helps participants develop life skills and find independence within their community. It’s also a way to make friends and connect with others.
“The incredible staff at St. Mary’s came together to organize the first Prom for young adults in our Medical Day Healthcare Program last year because we believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to experience fun social events like Prom with their friends,” said Dr. Edwin Simpser, President and CEO of St. Mary’s Healthcare System for Children.
Simpser also pointed out that many of their patients miss out on conventional milestones due to living with special needs or a life-limiting condition. St. Mary’s also recently hosted a Pre-K graduation for their younger day patients.
“We hope this second annual event brings joy and a sense of normalcy for our patients, many of whom were never able to attend a traditional Prom during their teenage years,” he added.
