First-graders at Herman L. Bradt Elementary School in Schenectady County wrote and decorated Christmas cards for the Berkshire County man who donated his 74-foot tree to Rockefeller Center.

The plan was to attend the tree lighting ceremony this week, but Earl Albert was not well enough to see it in person after suffering a stroke one month ago. Earl is currently in a rehab center, receiving the necessary treatment.

Albert’s family has requested everyone send him cards to cheer him up, and 17 first-graders at the primary school answered the call.

Ms. Savallo’s class not only wrote sweet messages to Earl, but they also drew Christmas trees on their cards.

“When my mom heard about the tree and Mr. Earl getting sick, she said, ‘This would be a perfect opportunity for you and your kids.’ I was like, ‘You’re right. It would be a great opportunity.'”

The messages some of her kids wrote were, “Merry Christmas,” “I hope you feel better soon,” and “Happy New Year!”