When Danielle Taylor decided to compete in a six-mile civilian military obstacle course last September, she knew two things: she did not want to do it alone and she wanted the challenge to have a purpose. She found a partner in Jeannine DelPozzo and a worthwhile cause in the Morgan Center.
Both Taylor and DelPozzo are entrepreneurs; Taylor, of Bish Bash Books in Oyster Bay and DelPozzo of DelPozzo Foods, in East Norwich. Each have a history of using their businesses to support local charities. Bish Bash Books used the iPad give back program to support at-risk children while DelPozzo Foods has supported Island Harvest in their efforts to combat hunger.
The Morgan Center, however, has really hit home for both Taylor and DelPozzo.
“Cancer affects every family,” said DelPozzo. “I’m blessed with two healthy children but I lost my dad to cancer at a young age.”
The Morgan Center, in Hicksville, is an indispensable resource for families with children undergoing cancer treatment. Since chemotherapy suppresses the immune system, leaving children at risk for infection and serious illness, children undergoing treatment cannot attend their regular school. The Morgan Center provides a safe environment for pre-school aged children to socialize and play together without risking infection. The center provides these services tuition-free while relying exclusively on the help of private donations. According to DelPozzo, “it’s a place that lets kids be kids.”
While looking for a charity, “The Morgan Center won me over,” said Taylor. While researching the center, she said, “I learned so much about what these kids are going through. They go our of their way to insure that these children are able to have an exceptional pre-school experience.”
In order to form a team the moms needed three participants. After spreading the word around, Stephanie Dean joined them. Taylor set up a goal for $3,000 in donations and surpassed it by raising $3,395.
The number “3,395” became the team’s motivating mantra. As they struggled through six grueling miles of military-type training exercises, they chanted “3,395,” reminding themselves of their purpose.
“This was really a challenge,” said DelPozzo. “But kids with cancer face challenges everyday.”
Taylor also says that her experience with the Morgan Center caused her to reflect on the blessings in her own life.
“Life is precious,” she says, and was subsequently inspired to name her team, Team YOLO, meaning, you only live once.
“We are touched by the compassion of Team Yolo,” said Nancy Zuch, co-founder and director of the Morgan Center. “The children and families of the Morgan Center are very grateful for Team Yolo’s dedication to making a difference in the lives of young children battling cancer.”
On Sept. 27, the team, now comprised of eight moms, will be competing again. Taylor has increased their fundraising goal to $4,000. Anyone wishing to donate can do so by visiting www.crowdrise.com and search for Team Yolo or Danielle Taylor.
