By Judy Seifert (Contact / Staff Bio)
October 17, 2009 - 08:59 a.m. EST

VASSAR — Sarah Bertoia is thankful for her life, thankful that her cancer is in remission, and really thankful that her chemotherapy treatments are over. The eight-year-old and her family thank God every day.

“We’re celebrating every day,” said her mom, Susan. “And part of that celebration is helping other children with leukemia.”

That help is in the form of toys – toys that children, diagnosed with cancer and undergoing treatment at the University of Michigan’s Mott’s Children Hospital, need to get them through the tough days.

“When Sarah was getting poked by needles, going through lumbar punctures, bone marrow biopsies, she was able to pick out something from a prize box,” Susan said. “This really helped her get through the difficult times and she wants to help other children get through.”

A collection box is now in place at Cook’s GM Superstore in Vassar.

“Things like Play-Doh, books, puzzles, games, crafts, dolls would all be appreciated,” Susan explained. “We’ll be collecting the toys through Oct. 31, then getting everything to the Children’s Leukemia Foundation of Michigan.”

According to Susan, the foundation holds a holiday gift drive every year. Gifts are sent to the children and their siblings.

“No one goes without,” she added. “It’s such a wonderful gesture for those families who may not have extra money or time due to their sick child going through treatment and hospitalization.”

This is the second year Sarah and her family have held the toy drive. Last year, the family hosted a party at their home celebrating Sarah’s completion of chemotherapy. The toy drive started at that party.

“This year, we’re holding another gathering to celebrate the year that has passed and we’ll be collecting toys again,” Susan said.

For questions about the drive or donations, call her at (989) 823-7773.