Manorhaven Walks for Seraphina O'Brien

Photos courtesy Port Washington School District

Members of the community came together to celebrate Manorhaven Elementary’s Walk for Health event that honored 9-year-old Seraphina O’Brien, who was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in October.

Students, parents, faculty, administrators and community residents dressed in purple, Seraphina’s favorite color, and participated in a victory lap and crossed a ceremonial finish line on Thursday, June 18.

Principal Bonni Cohen, Michael O’Brien, Seraphina’s father, and representatives from Kohl’s and Cohen Children’s Medical Center spoke at the event, which was made possible through the Kohl’s Cares Keeping Kids Healthy Program.

Kohl’s raised $333,855, which was donated to Cohen Children’s Medical Center.

Since 2000, Kohl’s has donated more than $4 million through Kohl’s Cares to Cohen Children’s Medical Center.

“I want to thank Manorhaven for its many acts of kindness,” said Michael O’Brien, who thanked the school for its constant support of Seraphina.

“We appreciate the purple days, the tutoring, and for keeping her connected to the school. We, along with Seraphina, are grateful for the tremendous outpour of support.”

The event was meant to show students and members of the community that walking can be fun and healthy. The school was provided with pedometers and support materials to conduct the walk.

Photo captions:

• Photo A: Manorhaven Elementary School students showcased their supportive signs for classmate Seraphina O’Brien at the event.
• Photo B: Director of Community Outreach at Cohen Children’s Medical Center Debbie Riccardi and Kohl’s District Manager Awilda Wasielew are pictured with the $333,855 check, which was donated to the medical center.
• Photo C: Students put their best foot forward and participated in a walk around the school’s field in honor of student Seraphina O’Brien.
• Photo D: Manorhaven Elementary School students crossed the ceremonial finish line.
• Photo E: Kindergarten and first-grade students cheered on students as they made their way around the school field.
• Photo F: Principal Bonni Cohen commended the students on participating and thanked the Manorhaven Elementary School community for its outpour of support.
• Photo G: Seraphina O’Brien, bottom left, is pictured with her parents and sibling, who stood at the finish line to congratulate students.
• Photo H: Students, donning purple attire, made their way around the field.
• Photo I: Seraphina O’Brien’s classmates presented her with a special gift during the celebratory event.