Community ready to ‘Bring it for Brooke’

SOUTH SALEM, N.Y. - On June 27, 2024, the community suffered a tragic loss with the passing of Brooke D’Aleo after a 27-month battle with leukemia.

Born to loving parents Megan and Frank on July 29, 2007, Brooke brought laughter and joy to her family from an early age. She was known for her caring nature and bright smile.

Brooke attended John Jay High School where she excelled both academically and athletically, developing a particular passion for softball.

Next month, the community will join together to honor her memory and raise funds for other local families in need of support.

On May 2, everyone is invited to “Bring it for Brooke.”

Troop 2027

“This is an event that called to me,” says Patricia Larkin of Girl Scout Troop 2027. "Brooke was a special young lady who felt a lot about the people around her and her community. This is something she would really want to do, to give back and help others in the same situation.”

This sentiment led to the creation of “Bring it for Brooke,” a charity started by Troop 2027 with Larkin and Lyaman Khashmati as the driving force behind its founding.

The non-profit sponsors small events and raises money to financially and emotionally support families in the community that have children battling life-threatening illnesses.

“Through this charity, we’re remembering Brooke by helping other kids and families who are going through difficult times, just like Brooke would have wanted,” the organization’s mission statement concludes.

Khashmati, a local personal injury attorney at LFK Law Practice, P.C., credits Troop 2027 with being instrumental in helping with the upcoming event.

“In addition to being greatly involved and assisting with coordination and promotion via social media and lead-up events, they have also helped to brainstorm and strategize the event,” Khashmati explains.

Many helping hands pitched in to help organize the May 2 event, including Josephine Berisha, Rebecca Bourla, and Mindy Pryor, as well as Ross Sacco from the KLBS and Blue Storm softball leagues.

A Day of Remembrance

‘Bring it for Brooke’ will be held on Friday, May 2, from 5 to 9 p.m. at Lewisboro Town Park. The schedule of events includes a memorial softball game featuring players from Blue Storm and KLBS softball, with athletes from John Jay High School serving as coaches. There will also be live music, food trucks, a “dancing for dollars” fundraiser, and a special healing workshop. At dusk, the evening will conclude with a vigil for Brooke.

In addition to the many people involved with planning and promoting the event, several local organizations have also generously become sponsors, including Gossett Brothers Nursery, Blue Storm Softball, LFK Law Practice, Aspire Digital Solutions, and Cross River Dental. Aspire Digital Solutions also designed and supports the organization's website.

“It's a connection between who Brooke was and what it means for her legacy to be carried on for years to come,” concludes Khashmati. “I want that message of hope that she had for herself to go to the community and those who are going through hard times right now to keep on fighting. And that there are community members that are strong and a community who has their backs. It’s about giving back to the community and relaying the message.”

To learn more about attending the Bring it For Brooke event, donations, and sponsorship opportunities, please visit bringitforbrooke.com.