By KELLY WILSON

Herald-Whig Staff Writer

When Pat Cook takes on the Chicago Marathon next month, he'll be doing it for Hope.

Cook, a Quincy native and Quincy Notre Dame High School graduate who now lives in Chicago, is raising money for the Aicardi Syndrome Foundation and honoring 17-month-old Hope Reichert, who was diagnosed about a year ago with Aicardi syndrome.

Hope is a daughter of Bill and Sara Reichert, and Cook is married to Sara's cousin.

"I cried," Sara said, referring to her response when she learned that Cook was running the marathon in Hope's honor. "We were very humbled, and we continue to be very overwhelmed that so many people care about her."

Sara is a math teacher at Unity High School in Mendon, and she said the school and her students "have been amazing" in offering support to the family -- and to Cook's run.

T-shirts were made up and sold as a fundraiser, and "almost every student has bought a T-shirt," Sara said. So far, about 120 shirts have been sold.

The shirts are designed with the Chicago skyline in the background and feature the words, "This one's for hope."

The Chicago Marathon will take place Oct. 11.

"Helping raise money for this cause makes every mile more meaningful," Cook says on a Web page linked to the Aicardi Syndrome Foundation Web site, where people can make online donations.

"This year's race is dedicated to her (Hope), as well as all the children and families who are affected by this syndrome. ... Every dollar truly makes a difference. ... Please help me honor the people who have been touched by Aicardi, and to bring hope to those currently facing the syndrome."

People can donate online at www.aicardisyndrome.org/site/node/335. They also may send a check payable to the Aicardi Syndrome Foundation to Sara Reichert, 947 E. 2300th St., Liberty, IL 62347.

-- kwilson@whig.com/221-3391