TOMS RIVER – The glitter balls were spinning. The disco lights swirled purple and blue. And while some danced on their feet, others grooved from their chairs – because nothing was going to stop this crowd from getting their boogie on.
Sixteen young residents at Children’s Specialized Hospital’s Long Term Care Center in Toms River experienced the night of a lifetime at their very own prom. Dressed to the nines in glamorous gowns and dapper suits, the children – most of whom are medically fragile and non-verbal – shined with excitement as music pulsed through the air and the beat of joy took over the room.
“Let’s get those strollers rocking!” called out one staff member, sparking a spontaneous swirl of wheelchairs to the rhythm of the music. The dance floor came alive – not with slick moves and dramatic dips – but with the energy of love, laughter, and support.
Prom night at Children’s Specialized is no ordinary event. It’s part of a tradition at the RWJBarnabas Health facility, which offers long-term care for some of the most complex pediatric cases in New Jersey. Many of the residents require round-the-clock medical care and can’t live at home or in traditional community settings. Still, for this one magical evening, the long-term care center transformed into a celebration hall filled with dancing, music, glitter, and heartfelt connection.
Dressed to dazzle and ready to shine, these young prom-goers lit up the night at a prom created especially for medically fragile children in residential care at Children’s Specialized Hospital’s Long Term Care Center. (Photo by Stephanie Faughnan)
“We say medically fragile to indicate the children need ongoing medical or respiratory care,” explained Carolyn Franzoso, Manager of Long-Term Care, Clinical Therapies.
Franzoso started with Children’s Specialized as a recreation therapy intern in 2012. Today, she says making kids feel at home is always the goal. “Prom is an annual event for us at all three of our long-term care locations, and we try to make it extra special,” she said. “It’s not just about one night – we’re building a home-like environment filled with joy, community, and memories.”
Themed “Neon Disco,” this year’s prom didn’t disappoint. From funky mirrored glasses to sparkling dresses adorned with flowers, each child radiated pride and personality. One young girl wore a pale blue dress with glittering embroidery; fresh blooms tucked into her hair. Another’s soft peach gown shimmered under the lights – with a LED handheld on her dress added the perfect sparkle.
And then there was three-year-old Jeremiah, who stole hearts in a tan suit and danced his way through the night – his arms bouncing to the rhythm while a delighted grin never left his face.
Putting together a prom for children with complex needs takes more than glitter and good intentions. When a florist wasn’t able to deliver, staff members leapt into action – crafting corsages by hand and also styling the girls’ hair into fancy updos. They even brought out their own disco flair, dressing in shimmering outfits as they danced alongside the kids. Recreation therapist Marissa Farnkoph was one of many spotted twirling and holding hands with several of the children, helping them feel every bit a part of the fun.
The community also rallied around the event, donating formalwear and accessories to make the night extra special. Hospital executives and staff members came together in a heartfelt show of unity, proving that even those with the most complex challenges can still be the life of the party.
And when the disco ball spun and the bass dropped, there was no question – the beat wasn’t just in the music. It pulsed through every wheelchair on the floor, in every caregiver’s hand guiding a child to dance, and in every cheer that filled the air.
While prom night was a highlight, it’s just one of the many ways Children’s Specialized builds connection and care into daily life. The Long Term Care Center in Toms River location currently serves 16 children, though it is licensed for 26. It’s one of 14 facilities throughout the state, with Toms River and Mountainside focused on long-term care, and New Brunswick offering inpatient rehabilitation. The other 11 are outpatient sites.
“We offer a really unique blend of services here,” said Franzoso. “We have recreational therapy, behavioral support, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech – all working together. And right now, we’re gearing up for our summer camp experience, where each week brings a new theme.”
Dressed to dazzle and ready to shine, these young prom-goers lit up the night at a prom created especially for medically fragile children in residential care at Children’s Specialized Hospital’s Long Term Care Center. (Photo by Stephanie Faughnan)
For families who need extra help or time away, the Toms River center also offers respite care. “Say a child usually lives at home, but their family is going on vacation and can’t take them,” Franzoso shared. “They can come stay with us and be a part of the themed summer camp. It gives families peace of mind and gives kids a fun and stimulating experience.”
Volunteers are a big part of what makes the center feel like home. Some come to read stories or play games. Others sign up for the cuddler program, holding and comforting infants who need that extra tender care. The team works to match volunteers with their interests so that the experience is as rewarding for them as it is for the children.
“We never want families to have to use our services,” said Franzoso. “But we’re always here for those who do. Sometimes people don’t even realize we’re here. We’re tucked away a bit, but we’re proud to be part of this community.”
That pride was on full display at prom – where the only thing brighter than the neon lights was the sense of connection in the room.
With every spin of a wheelchair and every beat of the music, these extraordinary young people showed the world that they, too, deserve a dance floor, a corsage, and a night to shine.
And shine they did.
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