Bonnie Adlman, a resident of Jericho, was invited into the center of the ring at the 14th Annual Big Apple Circus Benefit, which was held at Lincoln Center in New York City. The event raised nearly $180,000 in crucial funds for the Children's Brain Tumor Foundation (CBTF).

Adlman, who is the chair of the Big Apple Circus Benefit each year, was honored for her years of dedication to helping children with brain and spinal cord tumors. For over 10 years she has been the driving force behind the fundraiser. "This fundraiser is one of the events that form the cornerstone of our efforts to fulfill our mission," said Leonard Lustig, a member of the CBTF Board along with Adlman.

Adlman and her husband Fred became involved with CBTF after their daughter Jill was diagnosed with a brain tumor. The event was dedicated to Jill, who lost her battle with the tumor in 1993, at the age of 15.

Bonnie and Fred Adlman are thankful for what CBTF has given to them and their family and giving back to the organization is only natural for them. "The organization has become a big factor in our family. I don't think of what I do as extraordinary," said Bonnie Adlman. " I did it from the heart - not for recognition."

In addition to the help from CBTF, which is a national organization, the Jericho community has also been very supportive of the Adlman family. "When my daughter passed away, the entire Jericho community got involved and started various fundraising events," said Bonnie Adlman.

CBTF was founded in 1988 by a group of dedicated parents, physicians and friends to improve the treatment, quality of life, and long-term outlook for children with brain and spinal cord tumors through research, support, education and advocacy to families and survivors.

"Without Bonnie's tremendous energy and commitment, this fundraiser might simply have evaporated years ago," said Paula Scott, a CBTF board member. "Considering that the circus has raised over a million dollars in the last five years alone, that means a great deal indeed to the children and families we serve."

The Big Apple Circus Benefit was underwritten by Marc Wiener, another resident of Jericho, who serves as treasurer of CBTF. "When you hear of such tragedy, it touches your heart," said Wiener, "You just have to find a way to help. Underwriting the cost of the circus just seemed like the least I could do."

CBTF has awarded over $4 million to leading scientists across the country for scientific research into the causes of, and improved treatments for, childhood brain and spinal cord tumors, which are the number one cause of cancer death in children. Over 3,000 children are likely to be diagnosed with one of these tumors in 2003.

In addition, over $200,000 has been given out to hospitals and agencies for programs that directly impact the quality of life of patients and their families. For example, Winthrop University Hospital in Mineola received a grant to buy laptops for hospitalized children to use. Also, thousands of families, including many from Long Island, have received help through CBTF's educational programs and support network.

CBTF holds many fundraising events throughout the year. For more information on the organization, their events, or to make a donation, please visit call (212) 448-9494 or visit www.cbtf.org.