An effort is under way in the Panther Valley area communities to help raise funds to help defray expenses associated with treatment of a Summit Hill boy's rare illness.

John "Chet" Michalik of Summit Hill is seeking volunteers to help raise funds for the family of Cody Cinicola, a Panther Valley High School junior who weeks ago was diagnosed with a rare tumor in his throat.Michalik said he has tentatively started plans to hold a Night at the Races on the Friday after Thanksgiving, Nov. 26. Anyone interested in helping with the event, or wanting to serve on a committee to help with this endeavor, is asked to attend a meeting scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 26, at 7 p.m. in St. Joseph Catholic Church hall, Summit Hill.Cinicola is a son of Larry "Cin" and Jeanne Cinicola of the White Bear section of Summit Hill. He is currently undergoing chemotherapy treatments at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.Michalik said funds raised will help the family to defray costs associated with the boy's treatment, including the need to take Cody to Philadelphia sometimes 3-4 times a week.Michalik can also be reached at (570) 645-9306.