ORLANDO, Fla. – Sixteen preschoolers facing cancer marked a milestone, graduating from The Morgan Center in Orlando. For these children and their families, the ceremony was more than just a rite of passage — it was a celebration of resilience, hope and community.
The Morgan Center is one of only a few programs in the U.S. that offers free preschool to children undergoing cancer treatment. Because chemotherapy weakens the immune system, even a mild illness can become life-threatening, making regular preschools unsafe for these children. At The Morgan Center, students can learn, play and make friends in a protected environment designed just for them.
Research shows that 90% of brain development happens before age 5, making early education crucial. Without programs like The Morgan Center, children battling cancer can miss out on key social and educational experiences, risking long-term difficulties.
[EXCLUSIVE: Become a News 6 Insider (it’s FREE) | PINIT! Share your photos]
The center was founded by Nancy and Rod Zuch after their daughter, Morgan, was diagnosed with cancer as a toddler and had no safe preschool options. Today, Morgan Zuch is a teacher at the center, helping children experience the childhood moments she missed.
“I know what they’re going through,” Morgan Zuch said. “The Morgan Center brings happiness during such a dark time in their lives. Something I didn’t have. This gives them a normal childhood.”
For parents, the impact is life-changing.
“The Morgan Center has helped a lot. He’s grown a lot, and he’s blossomed and opened up,” one parent said. “He’s able to learn in a safe environment, have fun and make friends. And we love it.”
Another parent added, “Every time she comes, she’s always learning something new, and she really surprises us. This place is just amazing.”
Since opening its Orlando campus in 2019, The Morgan Center has provided thousands of hours of learning and support, always free of charge, thanks to donations and community support.
Now, as these graduates finish up their treatments, many will soon be cleared by their doctors to move on to kindergarten — and a future full of hope.
For more information about The Morgan Center or to learn how you can help, visit The Morgan Center’s website.