Chris and Christie Phelan know first-hand what it’s like to care for a child with cancer. In 2022, their son Corey was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) and passed away about six months after his diagnosis. Throughout Corey’s battle with cancer, his family, faith, and community strengthened his resolve and gave him peace.
“I hope no one has to go through what I have been through to see how beautiful life is, but I hope everyone is able to see how beautiful life is, the way I see it.” – Corey Phelan.
The Phelan family are devoting their lives to carrying out Corey’s wish: To help patients and families battling pediatric cancer. When Chris and Christie Phelan visited RMHC New York Metro, they knew they had found a special place to do just that.
Corey’s Lasting Legacy at RMHC
In early 2024, Chris and Christie visited the Ronald McDonald House in New Hyde Park and donated $10,000 to “Adopt-a-Room” for families receiving treatment for pediatric cancer. Shortly after, we put up a room plaque to commemorate Corey’s Promise and their gift.
The Phelans and RMHC New York Metro executive leadership: Matt Campo, CEO and Jennifer Nicholson, COO, connected over a shared mission to support the whole family when a child is sick. RMHC’s vision is to create a world where every family has what they need to ensure the best health outcomes for their children.
Cooking Up Smiles (and Hot Dogs)
In August 2024, Chris, Christie and their close friends and family committed to helping families by cooking a hearty and healthy meal in New Hyde Park. The Corey’s Promise team made custom t-shirts and arrived ready to grill! They made hot dogs, cheeseburgers, macaroni and cheese, tomato and farro salad, beans, and more for families to enjoy. Cooking a meal is a beautiful way to help families at RMHC.
Helping Pediatric Cancer Families in the Hospital
Corey’s Promise delivers again with a $50,000 donation to sponsor the Hospitality Cart at Stony Brook Children’s. The Hospitality Cart, operated by RMHC volunteers, will deliver snacks, hot coffee, toys, games, and drinks for families at their child’s bedside. RMHC volunteers serve over 4,800 hospitalized children annually with the Hospitality Cart.
On August 9th, the RMHC New York Metro team surprised Corey’s Promise with the completed Hospitality Cart, fully designed! Today, the Cart is in use at the hospital and delivering smiles to patients and families daily. We cannot thank Chris and Christie enough for their gift!