Barrington teen dedicated to finding cure for ALS

Connor Maytnier has never been directly affected by ALS - the progressive, degenerative disorder of the nervous system better known as Lou Gehrig's disease.

Yet the Barrington teenager embraced the Les Turner ALS Foundation's mission with such enthusiasm his selfless actions were recently recognized with their Junior Volunteer of the Year award.

"I do what I do because it's a duty, not because it was going to come with an award," Maytnier said. "We need to find a cure and the awareness just isn't there, especially with young people."

The Barrington High School freshman was first inspired by neighbor Bob Lee, a foundation board member who rode his bike from Maine to Florida to help raise money.

Maytnier started with a lemonade stand and garage sale at 9 years old. Now 15, he most recently helped to raise nearly $15,000 through the Barrington Tag Days Drive.

Perhaps more valuable than money is Maytnier's dedication to raising awareness among a young audience. Last year, he and two friends put on a presentation about ALS for their middle school classmates. He also recruited about 25 friends to help with Tag Days last May.

"I know the power of educating kids. We can get a lot done," said Maytnier, who played on the golf team in the fall and also supports the Cuba Township Food Pantry and Susan G. Komen Foundation for the Cure.

"And their involvement leads to parents knowing more and giving donations. It's a chain reaction."

Maytnier doesn't know whether he'll make fighting ALS his professional life's work, but he's confident he'll continue to volunteer as long as a cure is needed.