Wright Goes To Bat For Kids

Mr. Met, Ronald McDonald and (kneeling, r.) David Wright, New York Mets third baseman with young guests of Ronald McDonald House of Long Island in the newly refurbished Mets room at the House.

The room with a New York Mets bat, pictures and other memorabilia signed by 1986 World Series champs who visited the Ronald McDonald House of Long Island two years ago has been renovated with the help of none other than the New York Mets “Silver Slugger” David Wright who took a detour from the field to participate in the grand opening of the newly furbished New York Mets room on Wednesday, January 23 at 12:30 p.m. at the House. During his visit, he spent time with families and children of the House.

“This is truly an exemplary example of what generous minds can do to raise the spirits of the families we serve,” said Robert S. Weitzner, president of the House. “I think I can say without a doubt that the Mets are a big hit with everyone here at the House!”

The New York Mets room, originally named in memory of Jill and Stuart Krueger’s son, became the Krueger Family/NY Mets Room in 2006. Krueger and his family, being huge Mets fans, readily agreed to share the space with their baseball heroes. The room was commemorated in 2006, coinciding with the 20th anniversary of both the House and the Mets’ World Series victory.

Two years later, the Mets undertook efforts to help refurbish the room in “All Star” style. It sports freshly painted walls; a brand new carpet; a new chair from “Dream Seats” a replica of the Mets’ lockers, benches with storage; “Fat Heads” wall displays of David Wright and Carlos Beltran, and a 37-inch Sharp television, donated by the manufacturer.

Theresa Brucculeri, Ronald McDonald House of Long Island board of directors vice president, Gerald Lourino, board member, and Mr. Met pose with guests of Ronald McDonald House in the refurbished Mets room. Photo Vinny DuPre

In 2007, Mets third baseman David Wright was awarded the Gold Glove and the Silver Slugger Awards. Wright, who is a two-time National League All-Star, had a hit streak of 26 regular season games in 2007. The previous team record was 24, held by Mike Piazza and Hubie Brooks. Known for being especially accommodating to his fans by arriving early to the park for games, Wright is also noted for his courteous manner and work ethic.

The Ronald McDonald House of Long Island is a “home-away-from home” for families of seriously ill children who are undergoing medical treatment in area hospitals. Located on the campus of Schneider Children’s Hospital, the House accommodates families in a warm and supportive environment. Since 1986, the House has served more than 21,000 families. Many of the families that stay with us come from Queens, Brooklyn, Staten Island, Nassau and Suffolk Counties; as well as the surrounding metropolitan New York area, the nation and more than 80 countries around the world.