POTTSVILLE — A Pottsville boy does not have to be told the Golden Rule because he practices it.

Stephen George Karinch, who celebrated his 9th birthday Sunday, thinks of others before himself and treats others the way he would want to be treated. He displayed this generosity and kindness of heart recently by donating $70 of his $195 in birthday money to Lehigh Valley Hospital-Schuylkill. He plans to donate more money in the form of a gift to the local Toys for Tots drive.

He wrote two cards to the hospital telling them of his desire to donate. The cards simply say the donation for the children in the hospital came from his birthday money.

Stephen didn't have much to say Sunday when asked why he decided to donate, except he would want someone to help him if he needed it.

This is not the first time he has helped others. In 2015, Stephen and some friends had a lemonade stand and donated the money to the hospital.

Stephen's mother, Kim Cromyak, is proud of her son. She said the kindness her son shows proves that "even at an early age, you can make a difference."

His father, Steve Karinch, Pottsville assistant fire chief, is also proud of his son.

"It's always good to help other people. A little generosity goes a long way," he said

M. Michael Peckman, director of marketing and public affairs for Lehigh Valley Health Network, said he appreciates the thoughtfulness. The $35 donation will go to the Lehigh Valley Hospital-Schuylkill Auxiliary for cancer-related efforts, while the other money will go toward coloring books for sick children. Peckman said William J. Reppy, LVH-Schuylkill president, was "thrilled" about the donation and will send a thank-you card.

Peckman said the donation goes to show even small acts of kindness can change a life.

Peckman said he would tell Stephen, "Thank you and keep up the good work."

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