Barbara Tyree, a resident of Old Bethpage, will be presented the Vision of Hope Award from the Long Island Chapter of the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America, Inc. (CCFA) at their 14th Annual Fall Luncheon at the Carltun in Eisenhower Park on Nov. 2.

Tyree is president of Tyree Travel, which is located at 747 Old Bethpage Road in Old Bethpage. She is widely respected throughout Long Island for her commitment to philanthropy through her tireless efforts and her innovative approach to fundraising. Tyree Travel donates 100 percent of its profits to charitable causes.

Tyree first got involved with CCFA when her grandson, Mathew DiNapoli, was diagnosed with Crohn's disease at 7 years old and went through extensive surgeries. He is now 24 years old and was recently married. Another grandson of Tyree's, Sam Ross, was diagnosed with the disease also, but because of advances in research, he will be fine. "CCFA is a very kind organization because this disease is so horrible," said Tyree. "They have come up with amazing new products that help."

Jackie Tyree-Kos, Barbara's daughter, helps runs the travel agency and is also very involved with CCFA. "That is what the travel agency is all about - all of the money that we have been able to donate through the years is just great," said Tryee.

CCFA has been the recipient of Tyree's generosity as well as her irreplaceable effort in every arena from stuffing envelopes to chairing committees.

A modest Tyree believes there are many other people more worthy of this award. "I do as much as I can and as much as I have time for," she said. "The doctors that do the research deserve recognition because they made such a difference in so many lives."

Edda Ramsdell, executive director of the Long Island Chapter of the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America, Inc. knows that Tyree is a worthy recipient. "Barbara is so supportive and caring. Her family is the personification of good," said Ramsdell. "Barbara is the leader of the pack. She truly understands what has to be done. She never gives a gift and says it has to be spent on something specific - she says use it where you need it. She is the most selfless person."

For more information on the Long Island Chapter of the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America, Inc, please call 222-5530.