Dupage Policy Journal

Veteran state Rep. Jim Durkin (R-Western Springs) wants to see lawmakers in Springfield make the 47th Street Bridge a tribute to a young cancer victim.

“Many of us have traveled in I-294,” Durkin recently shared with colleagues while proposing House Joint Resolution 0013. “If you travel it, you’ll run into a bridge. For the last three years the bridge has been decorated with blue and yellow cups with 'Brooks Strong.' This is the 47th Street bridge. I’m asking the legislature to designate the 47th Street Bridge after Brooks.”

Brooks Tonn died of a rare form of cancer in 2010 but not before making a full life of memories.

The 10-year-old Hinsdale resident was known for his kind spirit and feisty attitude when it came to playing the sports he loved. In the days since his death, his family has founded the Brooks Strong Foundation to raise money for pediatric cancer research and to cover the costs of youth sports or other extracurricular activities for kids who have cancer.

In 2020, the foundation held three fundraisers whose proceeds have created grants families can  apply for to help offset the cost of activities that bring recipients joy.

“I wish I’d had a chance to meet him,” Durkin added. “I know his family well. He’s inspired many people in his short life. I’ve talked with The Illinois Tollway Authority and they will not oppose this. They are glad to make the proper designation if this passes.”

HJR 0013 now sits in the Transportation: Regulation, Roads & Bridges Committee.

“These are the little things we can do that are so important and make an impression of the good things people have done in their lives,” Durkin added. “I encourage others to do this. It means so much to Brooks’ family”