FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 5, 2023
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Town Proclaims April Parkinson’s Awareness Month in North Hempstead  

North Hempstead, NY – The Town of North Hempstead has officially declared April as Parkinson’s Awareness Month, joining a nationwide effort to raise awareness about Parkinson’s disease. The announcement was made at a special event held at the Town Hall in Manhasset on April 3 organized by Council Member Mariann Dalimonte. Town officials in attendance included Supervisor Jennifer DeSena, and Council Members Peter Zuckerman, Dennis Walsh, and Veronica Lurvey.

Dr. Randy Todd, a local ambassador to the Parkinson’s Foundation, joined the Town to help bring attention to Parkinson’s Awareness Month. The event was also an opportunity to highlight the programs offered by NYIT – Parkinson's Programs, including the popular Rock Steady Boxing where participants take part in games, boxing exercises, and group activities designed to improve physical and mental stamina. Additionally, NYIT offers dancing, Tai Chi, brain gym, music, speech programs for those with Parkinson’s.

Members of the Port Washing Police Department included Commissioner JB Meyer along with Chief of Police Robert DelMuro, Assistant Chief Kevin McCarroll, Assistant Chief William Zwerlein joined the event. Sergeant Nicholas Dello-Iacono, his brother Jimmy Dello-Iacono, and their family were also in attendance. Their support was greatly appreciated, and they expressed their commitment to help raise awareness about Parkinson’s disease.

This event was part of a national campaign with the Parkinson’s Foundation, working with local municipalities across the country to proclaim April as National Parkinson's Awareness Month. The goal is to educate the public about the disease and to raise funds to support research and programs that improve the quality of life for people living with Parkinson’s.

“We are proud to join the Parkinson’s Foundation and other municipalities across the country to raise awareness about Parkinson’s disease,” said Town Council Member Mariann Dalimonte. “As we recognize Parkinson's Awareness Month, it's important to remember that while a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease may be challenging, with the right treatment and support, people with Parkinson's can still live fulfilling and active lives."

Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects millions of people worldwide, including the well-known actor and Parkinson's advocate, Michael J. Fox. Fox was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 1991, at the age of 29. Since then, he has been a vocal advocate for Parkinson’s research and has led a $100 million effort with the Foundation.

The Parkinson’s Foundation is dedicated to making life better for those with Parkinson’s by working to improving care and advancing research for a cure. More information about Parkinson’s, include resources and support services can be found at: www.parkinson.org