Lexie Roth, an 18-year-old Centereach High School track and field star, his clearing hurdles on and off the field as she battles an incurable brain disease.

She has hydrocephalus, a life-threatening illness that produces abnormal fluid buildup the brain. She has undergone six surgeries since seventh grade.

And she's one of the top female high school track athletes in the state.

"It gives me that feeling of freedom," she says of her sport. "Freedom from doctors and hospitals."

And despite her obstacles, she says he wants to become one of the top hurdlers in the world.

"I want to bring home the gold for the USA," she says. "I want to do what I love and showcase that no matter what happens, your limitations are nothing compared to what you can do with a positive mindset."

Her coaches say that's the right attitude.

"She's a great kid, a tough kid," says Frank Montelione, an assistant track coach. "It's always a pleasure coaching her."