Bringing the Beach to the Hospital
Volunteer Transforms Long-Term Care Center into Summer Escape for Medically Fragile Children
Children who call Children’s Specialized Hospital’s Long Term Care Center in Mountainside home had a day filled with sunshine, sandcastles, and joy—without ever leaving the hospital. Thanks to longtime volunteer Fran Boccella and her family, a “Magical Day at the Beach” came to life once again, creating an unforgettable experience for some of New Jersey’s most medically complex pediatric patients.
For more than two decades, Fran and her husband Nick Boccella have brought the beach to children who are unable to experience it for themselves. With the help of her children, grandchildren, and friends, Fran transforms the hospital’s Long Term Care Center into a whimsical seaside adventure. This year’s transformation included interactive, multi-sensory beach-themed stations—from sandcastle building and fishing games to face painting, crafts, and even a unicorn sprinkler.
“Fran is the heart of this day,” said Alissa Memoli, President and Chief Development Officer at Children’s Specialized Hospital Foundation. “She turns an ordinary weekday into a celebration of childhood, creativity, and joy for the kids. We are so inspired by her compassion and commitment.”
The hospital’s beloved therapy dogs, Gallop and Maui, also joined in the fun—dressed in their best beach gear, they escorted patients from station to station, wagging tails and spreading smiles.
Children’s Specialized Hospital is nationally renowned for its Pediatric Long Term Care, Respite Care, and Palliative Care services. The Mountainside campus is home to children with complex medical needs whose families are no longer able to provide the level of care required at home. These children often require 24/7 support, and experiences like the Magical Day at the Beach provide crucial moments of joy and normalcy in their lives.
Children’s Specialized Hospital Foundation continues to raise funds to support these one-of-a-kind experiences and critical care programs that improve the quality of life for children with complex medical conditions. To learn more or donate, visit www.childrens-specialized.org.
