Ascent of a Woman - Brief Article

Vegetarian Times, Feb, 2000 by Cristin Marandino

`Climbing to new heights" has both literal and figurative meaning for Chicago resident Cherise Fleming. On February 11, the 27-year-old vegetarian will embark upon the most important climb of her life: 300 vertical feet of sheer ice. And yet that's not her biggest challenge. Six years ago, Fleming was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor, and after three surgeries and repeated rounds of chemotherapy, doctors pronounced the tumor inoperable. But this feisty wife and mother is unstoppable. "Despite my diagnosis, I feel like this has actually empowered me to do things I may never have even attempted. My experience has taught me that it is possible--indeed necessary--to turn something so negative into something positive."

Instead of allowing her disease to take over, Fleming has chosen to publicly battle her illness while increasing awareness and support for brain tumor research. She's soliciting both private and corporate sponsorships with the hope of raising at least $30,000 in donations for the American Brain Tumor Association. The nonprofit organization Climb for a Cause is overseeing Fleming's ascent. If you'd like to make a donation, contact Daniel Bobrow at (312) 455-9498 or visit www.climbforacause.org.