Jenn Seelig

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Feb 3, 2026, 5:35 AM

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Updated

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A high school senior is turning a family challenge into something sweet. Madeline Lee started a cookie business called Whisked.NYC, and every dollar helps fund hearing research.

Madeline Lee is adjusting to a new normal after her dad suddenly lost his hearing. The 17-year-old turned to something she loves - baking! She now runs the cookie business from her home kitchen.

"I started baking more and wanted to raise money for the American Hearing Research Foundation," said Lee.

What began as orders for friends has grown fast -with cookies shipping to customers in 48 states.

"I found a base recipe and started tweaking it," said Lee.

She bakes, packs, and ships every box herself.

The cookie flavors range from s'mores to Oreo to classic chocolate chip, but the business was born from something much more personal with her dad.

"In 2022, he lost his hearing, things like music in the car just stopped. It's different, but we make it work," said Lee.

So far, Lee has raised about $1,000 for research and counting.

"It feels really good knowing people enjoy the cookies and we're helping at the same time," she said.