43
Boardman car show raises money for township family
By Bruce Walton
Boardman
Life hasn’t been easy for Abbey Lipinsky, 14, her mother, Debbie, and two brothers, Andrew, 12, and Erik, 10, since her father, Michael died in 2013.
Only half a year later, she was diagnosed with a rare childhood cancer called clear cell sarcoma, and many hours were spent treating the cancer and removing a large tumor from her abdomen. Then in 2015, doctors discovered the cancer had returned.
That’s why they are so grateful to the Mahoning Valley Olde Car Club for raising money for them at their car show this Sunday.
The show will take place at Boardman Park from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and include door prizes, 48 awards, dash plaques, a raffle, a basket auction and some of the rarest and most unique cars in the area.
The 38th annual Cars in the Park car show and flea market will be hosted by the club, which donates a portion of its profits to help a family and child in need.
“Its been a long road, and we’re not done yet, but we’re making it,” Debbie said. “Especially in our situation, its been a godsend that everybody has come forward and helped.”
Since the cancer’s return, Abbey has been undergoing chemotherapy and will continue until the end of November.
Debbie said insurance covers most of the medical bills, but the biggest financial problem has been the travel expenses to Cleveland for every scan, meeting and treatment. They’ve also had to hire help to look after her brothers while they are away.
The club has raised money for three children every year with the car show fundraiser, giving more than $102,000 over the past three decades.
The family will meet the club’s members and enjoy the car show as honored guests. Rich Posivak, a club member and organizer of the club’s Tuesday Austintown cruise nights, said he is excited to present them with the money and hopes that it helps.