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Community Corner

Eastonite of the Week: Cathy Armetta Friedman

The operations director of Mikey's Way chats with Patch about her organization.

Name: Cathy Armetta Friedman

Occupation: Director of Operations, Mikey's Way Foundation

Family: Husband Les, daughter Caitlyn Booton, son Christopher Booton, stepsons Brian and Peter Friedman, dogs Mya and Napoleon

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What do you enjoy most about your job? 

Watching the faces of each pediatric patient light up when they receive their Mikey's Way gift.

Find out what's happening in Weston-Redding-Eastonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

What are the challenges Mikey's Way faces? 

Mikey's Way purchases all electronics at retail price. We are always looking for a connection or introduction to any of the electronic stores or manufacturers, so that we may purchase the items at cost. 

What are the needs of the organization? 

Donations. Donations. Donations. We will be serving 21 hospitals this year, and each Mikey's Way Day costs approximately $5,000 to $7,000 per visit.

How can people help? 

Donating to Mikey's Way, will ensure that every child at each hospital visit will stay connected to his or her family and friends. Volunteering your time is a great way to help.

Every year we hold our annual Comedy Night Celebration which requires a lot of man hours and power.

What is your favorite Mikey's Way moment?

It is difficult to choose one favorite moment. That I am able to afford the opportunity to witness the joy rising every time I step foot in a hospital, and that I can leave a piece of joy with every child is immeasurable.

What do people need to know about Mikey's Way? 

Mikey's Way Foundation helps pediatric patients with debilitating diseases cope with their long hospital stays by keeping connected to friends and family through Internet based electronics such as, iPads and laptops.

What do you have planned for the near future for the organization? 

We will be expanding the list of hospitals that we serve, and we have already begun planning our ever popular Comedy Night Celebration for next year.

What is your favorite thing about Easton? 

The winding country roads.

What is your favorite spot in Easton? 

My home.

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