Sister’s leukemia diagnosis sparks Acushnet 8-year-old to raise money for kids with life-threatening illnesses

At just 8 years old, Jack Leandro of Acushnet has turned his love of hockey into something powerful: a mission to grant magical wishes for kids with life-threatening illnesses. What started as “Pucks for Pennies” has now become “Pucks for Bucks,” a fundraiser that has already raised more than $4,000 for A Wish Come True. Thanks to an anonymous donor, every dollar raised will be matched up to $5,000.

Jack was inspired to give back after his sister, Sydney, received a wish from A Wish Come True to visit San Diego, California while battling leukemia. Now three years cancer-free, Sydney’s journey sparked something in Jack. He has been shooting pucks ever since.

“The fact that he took on this project is not surprising to me at all,” his coach said. “It just shows the type of character that Jack already has at this young age.”

Jack’s goal is to raise $5,027 — a number he chose because 27 is his favorite hockey number. With the new match in place, Jack’s fundraiser could now bring in more than $10,000 to help grant wishes for other children.

“Jack’s heart and determination are what A Wish Come True is all about,” said Mary-Kate O’Leary, Executive Director of A Wish Come True. “He’s not just raising money. He’s raising hope for other children waiting for powerful magical wish. With the community behind him, Jack is proving that anyone at any age can make a powerful impact.”

Every dollar raised will go directly to A Wish Come True, a wish-granting organization serving Rhode Island, Southeastern and Central Massachusetts, and Eastern Connecticut. The nonprofit not only grants wishes, but also supports families through and beyond treatment, including the Meghan K. Duffy Hardship Fund, which assist families during financial crisis throughout their child’s medical journey.

“You have no idea the impact you’re going to make on other people’s lives,” Jack’s dad said. “We’re extremely thankful for you — and remember, whatever you do in life, do it to the fullest.”

Jack is now calling on the community to help him reach his goal — and daring others to beat it. “Tag a friend or Make a donation. Can you beat my goal? Challenge me!” To donate or follow Jack’s journey, visit his GoFundMe at https://gofund.me/446e5041 and follow along on

Facebook at Pucks for Bucks with Jack and on Instagram at @jackthetank27.