Nine years ago, our town was forever changed by the loss of Madeline Guarraia, a beautiful and bright young child who lost a brave battle to cancer. Losing Madeline left a hole in the hearts of East Lyme, something that could never be filled. But, from that grief, something magical grew: Madeline’s Wish Toy Drive.
One of the many selfless acts that defined her, Madeline felt satisfied with the gifts she had and decided she would rather spread the holiday joy with the other children at the Yale Hospital Medical Center by starting her very own toy drive. Seeing the joy that came from her wish to give back across the faces of the children, Madeline’s family has continued this tradition since her passing. This year marks the 10th annual Madeline’s Wish Toy Drive.
“The thing that brought Madeline the most satisfaction in this world was bringing joy to other people— the toy drive ensures that that wish is fulfilled. In doing it each year, I feel extremely close to my sister knowing that her legacy of generosity and paying it forward continues on,” Madeline’s sister, senior Julianne Guarraia said.
The toy drive for Madeline has grown beyond what anyone could’ve imagined. What started with a few donations has expanded into a full community effort involving schools, local businesses, volunteers, and many families. Thousands
of toys have been donated over the years, each one representing a reminder that these children are not fighting their
battles alone.
“Madeline’s request that others pay it forward, rather than accepting anything for herself in her greatest time of need, remains the very heart of this toy drive. She viewed the world with incredible maturity and selflessness, and the fact that, years later, her spirit continues to leave such a profound impact on our community is incredible,” Madeline’s mother, Amy Guarraia, said.
This year, ELHS has become a part of the collective effort to give back to children at Yale. Located in the commons, students at ELHS filled boxes with toys. On December 18, the Guarraia family collected toys from all 18 locations, and, with the help of volunteers and family, delivered them to children at Yale Hospital Medical Center.
“Madeline, my God sister, has always been very important to me and my family. I love carrying on her legacy by helping bring the toys to Yale. Growing up, seeing how much of an impact the toy drive has had makes me feel good about spreading the kindness Madeline always shared with everyone,” senior Xavier Stefanski said.
Madeline’s legacy lives on, not only through the toys collected, but through the empathy and kindness she continues to inspire across all ages. Though her life was far too short, the impact of her story continues to bring hope and joy to countless children and to an entire community that refuses to forget her.
