Long Island restaurants step up for W. Babylon toddler battling leukemia

The Long Island community — including two popular local restaurants — is rallying around a 1-year-old West Babylon boy and his family as the tot battles leukemia.

In the six weeks since he was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML), little Jackson Berry has already undergone blood transfusions and his first round of chemotherapy.

Additionally, the boy is now preparing for a bone marrow transplant, according to his father, Shaun Berry, who launched a GoFundMe campaign to help the family. The fundraiser has received $36,000 through hundreds of contributions.

Doctors expect Jackson’s treatment to last about a year and a half, with extended hospital stays alternating with short visits home, his family said. His mother, Jenna Busterna Berry, has stepped away from work to care for him full time.

Patchogue and Bay Shore restaurants pitch in

Local businesses and nonprofits have quickly rallied to help.

In September, Angels of Long Island in Patchogue hosted a Shop for a Good Cause event, donating half of all proceeds from the day’s sales to the Berry family.

Up next are two major community fundraisers at eateries in Patchogue and Bay Shore.

On Oct. 24, Patchogue’s Village Idiot Pub will host “Jackson’s Jam 5” beginning at 6 p.m. The event will feature live music, food and drink specials, and a chance auction.

A $20 donation at the door will go to the Berry family. The restaurant is located at 14 E. Main St.

Then, on Nov. 15, the Late Knight Warriors, a Bay Shore–based nonprofit founded by members of the local bar and restaurant community, will present “Cocktails for a Cause: Raise Your Spirits for Jackson” from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Tap Room, located at 44 E. Main St. in Bay Shore.

Tickets are $100 and include an appetizer buffet, open bar, raffles and auctions, with the majority of proceeds going to Jackson’s family.

Outpouring of help

Supporters unable to attend the events can contribute directly to the GoFundMe campaign, where Shaun Berry said the outpouring of help has already made a difference in allowing the family to focus on “what is most important — our precious baby.”