Matthew Gandarillas, of Nesconset, pays it forward to Stony Brook Cancer Center
Matthew Gandarillas, a pediatric cancer survivor, raised about $1,000 for the Stony Brook Cancer Center which the Nesconset teen then used to purchase an assortment of toys, gift cards and even Yankees tickets for children undergoing treatment at the center. Credit: Newsday/Alejandra Villa Loarca
Nesconset teen Matthew Gandarillas, who survived pediatric cancer as a baby, has given back to the treatment center he credits with saving his life.
The senior at Smithtown High School East recently raised more than $1,000 and used the funds to purchase gift cards and toys for children undergoing treatment at Stony Brook Cancer Center.
Gandarillas, 18, was treated at the facility starting at 8 months old after his mother, Teresa, noticed a lump on his side that turned out to be a Stage III hepatoblastoma tumor, he said. He underwent five months of chemotherapy as well as surgery to remove his entire gallbladder and half of his liver, he said.
“I’ve been thinking of doing this for a while,” Gandarillas said of the fundraising campaign. “I wanted to give back to the place that helped me survive, while also helping kids who are going through the same situation that I was once in and their families that might be struggling with bills to pay.”
Gandarillas said he raised the money in February by promoting the effort on social media and then used the funds to purchase gift cards, toys and even tickets to a game at Yankee Stadium.
The gift cards were for use at gas stations and grocery stores, while the toys included action figures, coloring books and more, he said.
“I’m grateful to everyone that reached out and donated whatever they could; it all counts,” said Gandarillas.
Lauren Sharaby, a certified child life specialist at Stony Brook Children’s Hospital, called the teen a “true role model” for his display of strength and compassion.
“We are so thankful for Matthew’s incredible generosity and inspiring spirit,” she said. “Matthew’s efforts have brought comfort, joy and smiles to so many children who are facing challenges similar to the ones he has overcome. His kindness reminds us all of the power of hope and the importance of community.”
His school principal echoed those sentiments.
“Matt is an extraordinary young man who is selflessly serving his community by supporting cancer patients and their families,” said Smithtown East Principal Robert Rose. “His dedication and caring nature is felt by all.”
Gandarillas is also a member of his school’s varsity soccer team, DECA Club and national math, Spanish, social studies and business honor societies.
Michael R. Ebert is an education researcher and has worked for Newsday in various capacities since 2003. He was part of an 11-person team named as 2008 Pulitzer Prize finalists for investigative coverage of the LIRR's platform safety issues.
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