Tommy Wainwright, 8, was diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma cancer in April 2020.
After 14 rounds of chemotherapy, 20 blood transfusions, and surgery in August 2020 to remove three ribs, Tommy is cancer-free as of Jan. 11 .
“Tommy is just the happiest, sweetest boy you’ll ever meet,” said Amanda Pietrone, 33, Wainwright’s cousin. “He was just a champ throughout all this. He never complained about anything.”
Pietrone’s workplace, Krebs Automotive of Gibsonia, is holding a “replenishment” drive Friday in honor of Tommy to pay it forward toward blood donations. Vitalant is sponsoring the drive, which has over 120 donors scheduled.
“Amanda’s been with us a very long time,” said Chris Krebs, of Shaler, who has co-owned Krebs with his brother since 1995. “This particular situation struck close to home, so we obviously want to get behind Amanda and Tommy. Tommy’s an inspiration, so we expect nothing less than a full house.”
Krebs also plans to give blood at Friday’s event.
“We are hoping to refill the blood bank,” Tommy’s mom Lisa Wainwright, of Shaler, said Wednesday. “My son ended up getting about 20 units during his treatment. So we really just want to give back.”
It could not come at a better time, following a “severe” blood shortage announcement from the American Red Cross.
“When a really young child is given another chance at life, that resonates with donors,” Vitalant spokeswoman Kristen Lane said.
“He just wants to find a way to show other kids that you’re not alone and bring awareness to childhood cancer,” Pietrone said.
The drive takes place from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Krebs Automotive. There will be food trucks, a Kona Ice truck, crafts and games for attendees to enjoy.
“It makes you realize how special life is,” Lisa Wainwright said. “And you never know when things can change.”
