Inaugural Tinker Ball

EAST AMHERST, N.Y. (WIVB) - "Jacquie's story is just one story of many and her life has affected so many lives," said Jacquie's father Torey Hirsch.

Jacquie Hirsch's spirit is alive Tuesday at Greater Buffalo Gymnastics.

She grew up here at the gym owned by her parents Torey and Sharon Hirsch.

In 2007, their lives were torn apart when Jacquie, at age 22, was diagnosed with a form of leukemia.

"We're a pretty strong family to begin with so it was a matter of what do we need to do it," said Torey.

Jacquie's brave battle would last only a year, despite two bone marrow transplants, she succumbed to the disease.

Along the way, Jacquie left her mark on fellow patients, especially the children.

Torey said, "She befriended the pediatric ward at Roswell and she just loved being around the kids and giving them extra reassurance for what they were going through."

Jacquie's outlook on life also has a profound effect on young gymnasts.

A poem she wrote in high school, along with a final letter to her sorority sisters, hangs in the gym, urging them to believe.

"The importance of believing and positive outcome to keep strong and keep pushing forward," said Torey.

Jacquie's family pushes on, with a foundation in her name.

"It's as much a part of our lives now as her being sick was," said Jacquie's brother T.J. Hirsch.

The inaugural Jacquie Hirsch "Tinker Ball" will be held this Friday night, all with the goal of raising money for research, to help others.

T.J. said, "One of her greatest wishes was to rid the world of cancer and starting with leukemia that was one of her biggest dreams."

"So keeping up with that tradition, we have been doing and will do everything we can reach the cure she was looking for, that we could never find for her," said T.J.

Jacquie loved Tinkerbell, there are a few tickets left for Friday's Tinkerball.

It'll be held at Sean Patrick's in East Amherst.

Visit www.tinker-ball.com for more information.