Capital District Times

In 2000, Pat Hedgeman of Colonie began volunteering at the Melodies Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders at Albany Med. This initiative was in memory of her granddaughter, Rosemary Frances Johnson, known as Rosie, who passed away from neuroblastoma weeks before her third birthday.

Hedgeman, affectionately called Grandma Pat, continued visiting the children's hospital to support families like hers. A conversation with a young patient sparked an idea to honor Rosie's memory. "It was close to Christmas," Hedgeman recalled. The child wished for a gift for his mother who had quit her job to be with him every day. "She wants a candle," he said. Hedgeman fulfilled this wish and remembers how happy the patient was to give that gift.

This gesture led to the creation of Rosie's Love Holiday Shop. With help from family and friends, Hedgeman brought gifts to the clinic for patients to choose for their loved ones. Local businesses joined in, ensuring children could find gifts free of charge. The shop became an annual event and recently celebrated its 25th year.

Greg Johnson, Rosie's father, remarked on the milestone: "It started as a need to celebrate something while we were in the clinic and to remember those families who still have to go through it." He added, "It's pretty amazing it's been 25 years!"

Volunteers play a crucial role by wrapping presents so children can take them home for their families and friends. Many volunteers have personal connections to the Melodies Center. Laurel McAdoo's son Myles shopped at the holiday shop during his treatment but passed away in 2012 at age nine. McAdoo has volunteered at Rosie's Love Holiday Shop for several years now.

"I remember Myles shopping in the holiday shop when he was a patient," McAdoo said. "We received such good care and so much love here in the Melodies Center."

Hedgeman attributes much of Rosie's Love success to donations and volunteers but is driven by honoring Rosie: "I also do it because of all the other children I've met over the years." She noted that while not everyone survives their journey, it's important they enjoy being kids.

"To see the look on a child's face when they come in and start shopping for their loved ones...it's really something special," said Johnson.

Both Hedgeman and Johnson believe Rosie would be proud of what has been accomplished in her name over these many years. "Rosie would be in her glory!" exclaimed Hedgeman.