A Long Island man, who gives from the heart since suffering a medical setback, is marking 15 years of collecting toys for sick kids.

John Theissen collects and distributes toys to children living with life-challenging illnesses. Theissen keeps the toys in a Wantagh storefront where children can pick anything their hearts desire from the "wish list room." Theissen's mission shifted from just toys when he recently opened a children?s treatment room at Nassau Medical Center.

Theissen, who recovered from a brain tumor and chemo as a teenager, has collected more than 400,000 new toys and donated to more than 180 hospitals since 1992. His wife and son help. Theissen says it?s important for families to master the art of giving, not just receiving.

Related InformationJohn Theissen Children's Foundation