Lake Mary detective holds fundraiser for Lake County firefighter's son

Fundraiser for boy battling cancer

MOUNT DORA, Fla. – A detective with the Lake Mary Police Department is teaming up with the Lake County Firefighters Charities to raise money for 7-year-old Jay Ryon, a Sorrento child who is battling leukemia.

Detective Ron Tomassi is hosting an event called "Firearms Freedom For Females," as a fundraiser for Ryon, whose father works as a Lake County firefighter.

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Ryon is currently undergoing chemotherapy and the family is struggling to pay for his treatment. The boy has a strong following on Facebook with a "Team Jay" page.

Tomassi told Local 6 in an email: "28 years ago, the quick response and actions of a South Florida Fire Department's paramedic, saved the life of my son. I have carried with me, the promise I made then, to help a firefighter if ever the chance presented itself. And it has."

The class is designed to teach effective street survival skills and will include training materials and information on how women can protect themselves if ever in a violent
confrontation.

The course is provided by Tomassi, a 34-year veteran in law enforcement with all proceeds going to the Lake County Firefighters Charities, towards Ryon's care. An hour class usually costs about $60, but women age 18 and up are welcome to participate with any donation they feel is appropriate. To register call Detective Ron Tomassi at 352-552-7010 or rontomassi@comcast.net.

The event is Saturday at 31205 Round Lake Road, in Mount Dora.


About the Authors:

Tara Evans is an executive producer and has been with News 6 since January 2013. She currently spearheads News 6 at Nine and specializes in stories with messages of inspiration, hope and that make a difference for people -- with a few hard-hitting investigations thrown in from time to time.

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