"A younger sibling suffered from asthma, so I know the impact this condition makes on the individual and also on the entire family," said Sonia anzano, children's book author and Sesame Street alumna. "I'm happy to help Project Sunshine relieve some of the stress families endure. "Manzano read her book "No Dogs Allowed" to children enjoying a summer beach party at EHACE (East Harlem Asthma Center of Excellence) (Photo: Project Sunshine).
More than 40 young EHACE members joined in the summer-themed celebration
complete with arts and crafts, face painting, games and healthy summer
snacks. This "Party Time" event is one of several programs that Project
Sunshine has created to bring hope and joy to young children and their
family members while they are receiving education and counseling for
pediatric asthma.
According to data from the New York State Department of Health, East
Harlem has one of the highest asthma hospitalization rates among
children ages 0-17, compared to other New York City neighborhoods. EHACE
is committed to reducing the number of asthma-related hospitalizations
by 50 percent, and increasing normal activity among children with poorly
controlled asthma.