An Orillia family is seeking help with raising money for a 12-year-old boy suffering from a rare form of cancer.
Just four months ago, Lucas Magnelli was diagnosed with ewing sarcoma, a type of cancer that occurs in bones or the soft tissue around the bones. It has hampered his ability to be active and pursue his passion for karate, in which he is a black belt.
Magnelli, a native of Rhode Island, is lucky to have lots of Canadian relatives who care deeply about him. His aunt, Shelley Davis, an Orillia resident, is working hard at organizing a fundraiser to help cover his hefty medical bills.
On Aug. 28, the Love For Lucas Fundraiser concert takes place from 2 p.m. till 5 p.m. at ODAS Park. On the lineup to perform are Sammy, Ronnie Douglas and Liz Anderson (Hurtubise).
“Because of the pandemic we haven’t done any visiting,” Davis explained. “His Canadian family has to try to support somehow, which is why we are doing this fundraiser.”
Magnelli has been through six chemotherapy treatments and is “violently” ill, Davis says.
“He’s been in the hospital, he just had surgery, and he’s got more chemo to do,” she explained.
Once Magnelli is finished being put through the wringer, his family will be facing a bill for about $50,000, she explained.
“The medical coverage in the States certainly isn’t what it is here in Canada,” Davis said. “We have to do the best we can to help my brother and his son out.”
A silent auction will take place during the fundraising concert. Items have been donated from local businesses such as the Orillia Opera House, Kahuna Surf Shop, Mariposa Market, and The Sock Drawer and More.
“The community has been so supportive,” Davis said. “We went up and down the main street to get donations and people were very kind.”
On top of the silent auction, the concert will offer door prizes and a bake sale.
“Between everything together, we are hoping to get a good turnout to raise some funds for Lucas,” Davis said.
Admission to the event is by donation. Davis has her hopes set on raising $5,000 to $6,000.
“We want people to donate whatever amount of money they are comfortable with to come in and hear the musicians,” she said. “We aren’t getting our hopes up with our expectations, but $5,000 or $6,000 raised would be appreciated for sure.”
Davis says meeting the fundraising goal would be extraordinary.
“It would be overwhelming,” she said. “We are so thankful that people have a real heart in Orillia to consider this.”
To purchase tickets or for more information, email: shelleydavis332@gmail.
