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SEND CARDS: Local boy, 13, battling cancer

Posted at 10:29 AM, Apr 11, 2016
and last updated 2016-04-11 10:29:59-04

The Wayne County community is coming together to support a 13-year-old boy battling a rare form of cancer. 

Wayne County Sheriff Captain Doug Hunter is asking residents to send cards to Joey Leininger, an 8th grader at Norwayne Elementary School, as he fights fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma.

In a video posted to the Wayne County Sheriff's Office Facebook page, which now has more than 28,000 views, Joey said the form of cancer only affects about 200 people per year worldwide.

 

Please take a look at this video and then take time to send a card of support to Joey. Please send these cards to the Wayne County Sheriff's Office 201 W. North St. Wooster Ohio 44691 Att Joey Leininger. Every card will be delivered to Joey on April 15th.This is great for a classroom project, church outreach, or for anyone who just wants to help a 13 yr old who is facing a difficult battle.At the very least, please share this video. Thank you!

Posted by Wayne County Sheriff on Sunday, April 10, 2016

The carcinoma can sometimes be treated with surgery but Joey's cancer has progressed so quickly that traditional surgery is not an option. 

For right now, he's taking chemotherapy pills to minimize the growth of the tumor.

Since his March diagnosis, Joey made a wish list of things he wants to do while he still has the energy.

That list includes meeting LeBron James. 

He's attending a Cavs game Wednesday, where he hopes to meet the local basketball hero.

Then, on Saturday, Capt. Hunter will be attending the County Line Trail App 5k & Kids Rainbow Run, collecting cards for Joey from members of the community. Hunter asks that residents also consider donating gas cards, as Joey's family will have to travel frequently for treatment. 

Can't make it to the 5K? Send your letters to the Wayne County Sheriff's Office at 201 W. North St. Wooster, Ohio 44691. They will be delivered to Joey on April 15.