Parents' fundraising fights child's illness

For the past two years, Robert and Denise Spear of East Meadow have been raising money and awareness of tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC), a serious medical condition that affects their 9-year-old daughter, Alexandra.

They have helped raise more than $110,000 for the Tuberous Sclerosis Alliance, an organization focused on finding a cure for the genetic disorder that causes tumors to form in parts of the body including the brain, eyes, heart, kidney, skin and lungs. The condition can lead to medical issues including seizures, respiratory ailments and autism.

The family will be hosting the third annual tuberous sclerosis fundraiser at 6 p.m. on Aug. 11 in Jackie Reilly’s Restaurant, 3964 Hempstead Tpke., Bethpage, featuring live music, food, 50/50 raffles and penny auctions. Admission is $10.

The Spears are also preparing for a second annual Step Forward to Cure TSC Walkathon, scheduled for 11 a.m. Sept. 24 at Wantagh Park. Participants can register at the event or online at www.stepforwardtocuretsc.org.

“Hopefully, our efforts can help us get closer to finding a cure,” Robert Spear said.
For more information, call Robert Spear at 516-250-0803 or send an email to rspear96@gmail.com.