In memory of dad, NJ boy raising money for toys for kids with cancer

PISCATAWAY — Two years ago, Mikey Wojcik's father succumbed to pancreatic cancer. Now 11-year-old Mikey is hoping to help children diagnosed with all forms of cancer by buying toys to bring to them after chemotherapy at Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey.

Through his mother Indira's Facebook page, Mikey is asking for donations as small as $1, which will be put toward the purchase of these toys. He has set a fundraising goal of $500 total; so far, his efforts have brought him more than halfway there.

Mikey believes the toys will be welcome distractions.

"I think that's what it'll do, it'll put a smile on their face and let them think about playing with their toy instead of thinking about, 'Wow, I just got a shot,'" he said.

After the money comes in and Mikey goes shopping with his mom, he hopes to deliver the toys himself. He said he hadn't yet been to visit children receiving treatment at the Cancer Institute facilities in New Brunswick.

"It was really only for my dad's therapy, we really haven't been able to see (many) kids yet," he said. "But I really want to go soon."

For Indira Wojcik, getting the word out about the fund drive helps shine a light on her son's bravery and creativity.

"To take something out of tragedy and make it into such a great thing, I'm just so proud of him," she said.

Mikey and Indira have set up a post office box through which they are accepting cash and checks. That address is: Mikey Wojcik, PO Box 152, Piscataway, NJ 08855.

Patrick Lavery produces "New Jersey's First News" and is New Jersey 101.5's morning drive breaking news reporter. Follow him on Twitter @plavery1015 or email patrick.lavery@townsquaremedia.com.

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