Teen patients at Montefiore Children’s Hospital finally got to celebrate their annual prom for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic.

The attendees donned sparkling makeup, their best tuxedos and dazzling dresses to party. The over 100 teens in attendance all have illnesses, including cancer and sickle cell disease. Some are even waiting for a lifesaving transplant.

“They are going through what no teen should have to,” said Katie Roche, a child life specialist at the hospital. “We want to make sure they still remember their teens and they still get to experience those milestones that every teen deserves."

The Dunkin' Joy Foundation helped to fund the prom night for the teens, helping bring a true prom experience with a candy bar and gem bar, stilt dancers and more.

Hailey Fondeur, who has acute lymphoblastic leukemia, says missing out on teen milestones has become a norm in her life, so she was happy to celebrate her prom.

"I feel excited, I feel included,” said the16-year-old. “Every day gets better.”