County Sheriff Escorts ‘Exceptional’ Student To School
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SINCLAIRVILLE -- After many days of hardship, Vinnie Miller finally got a payoff fitting of the bravery he has shown through the hurdles his health has presented.
Miller, a 7-year-old Sinclairville Elementary student, suffers from Optic Glioma and Neurofibromatosis Type 1, a condition that causes tumors to form in the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. Miller has undergone chemotherapy treatments and endured multiple surgeries over the last few years.
But Tuesday, Miller was smiling from ear to ear thanks to Chautauqua County Sheriff Jason Beichner, as Miller was driven to school with lights and sirens guiding his trip to campus. Miller was surprised Tuesday morning with the honor.
"Spending an hour with him and seeing his positive outlook on life ... it made me a better person," Beichner said. "I was happy to be a part of it."
Beichner noted Tuesday morning was his first time escorting a student to school. Beichner has visited groups of students in the past through his work with the K-9 unit, but called this unique experience "fantastic."
Beichner described Miller as "an exceptional young man who always has a smile on his face." During the experience, Miller tried on a police vest and was "smiling ear to ear" throughout the morning.
Miller idolizes Mike Cejka, meteorologist for WIVB Channel 4, and hopes to follow in his footsteps when he grows up. Through the sunny days and the gloomy ones, Miller gives the weather report on the morning announcements at school each day, and even an experience like Beichner and the sheriff's department provided would not stand in his way of that.
Beichner said, "He was very happy to be a part of it, but his one concern was to get to school on time so he could give the weather on the announcements. He's very dedicated to his craft."
The Cassadaga Valley Central School District posted on Facebook, "Thank you to these local law enforcement officers for celebrating our students and way to go Vinnie!"
Beichner also credited the reaction on social media and through the school community for making the experience even more special.
"The response from the community was outstanding. I think it says a lot about the area we live in," Beichner said.