Teen sets goal for Relay for Life, inspires others

A little over two years ago, at age 14, Brook Maier learned that the problem with her right eye wasn't an eye infection. She was diagnosed with Ewings sarcoma, a cancerous tumor, that was growing in her eye socket and sinuses. From the start, Brook was strong and inspiring, channeling all of that teenage energy into beating cancer, and helping others while doing it. When she learned that the extensive chemotherapy would likely make her hair fall out, she made an appointment at a hair salon, and had her long hair cut off and donated to "Locks of Love." Since she was going to lose it anyway, she felt she could help a child with cancer by donating her hair to make a wig.

During the almost 14 months of hospitalization at Strong Memorial Hospital, for surgery, chemotherapy and radiation, Brook kept up her studies with the help of a tutor. She re-entered Spencerport High School in January 2004, as a freshman.

A year ago, Brook and her family were flown by the "Make A Wish" foundation to visit her idol, Dale Earnhardt, Jr. at his Charlotte, North Carolina headquarters for a private meeting, and to watch him in the Nextel All Star Challenge race. One of the first things she did upon her return, was to donate a Nascar t-shirt signed by Earnhardt, Jr. to the Spencerport Relay for Life for their Chinese auction.

This year, Brook is not only attending the Relay for Life, held Friday, June 3 at Spencerport High School, she is the inspiration for, and member of a team of 10 teenagers and four adults who will be participating in the 13 hour walk.

Team "Brook's Peeps" are selling purple "HOPE" bracelets, and taking donations with a goal of raising $1,200 for the American Cancer Society. To donate to Brook's Peeps, use the collection jar at Java John's coffee shop, or e-mail team captain Cindy Minunni at cindyminunni@hotmail.com. For information about the event, or to donate online go to: www.wolffpack.com/rfl.