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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

Big Brother’s Love Raises Game To New Level

NEW HAVEN, Conn. When it comes to brothers and sisters, sibling rivalry is nothing new and actually is to be expected. However, for one local man, the role of big brother demanded he lay aside childish opposition and put on selflessness.

Unexpectedly, in 2003, Bob Lukaszek’s sister Helen Langello, then just 33 and theretofore in good health, was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS), a potentially debilitating disease affecting the central nervous system.

However, after absorbing the initial shock, Langello and Lukaszek chose to take action rather than give up. A resident of Northford, Conn., Langello registered to participate in the National MS Society, Greater Connecticut Chapter annual spring walk event.

“At that first walk event, family and friends were there to join me,” remembered Langello, who grew up in East Haven, Conn. “IHelen named my walk team “Helen’s Heroes,” a tribute of sorts to all those supporting me in my fight against this unpredictable disease. Among those stepping out, no one was more devoted or supportive than Bob. But I could tell he wanted to do more.”

Indeed he did. In fact, in 2006 Lukaszek began coordinating a golf classic in honor of his sister, bringing together for a single cause those less likely to know about MS and its effects. The first annual Helen’s Heroes Golf Classic will be held Monday, June 18, and will benefit the National MS Society, Greater Connecticut Chapter and its efforts to find a cure and provide for those in the state battling MS. The classic tees off with breakfast and follows with a shotgun start at 7:30 a.m. at Grassy Hill Country Club in Orange, Conn.

“My sister means the world to me,” said the 43-year-old East Haven resident who works as a printing and direct mail consultant with Harty Integrated Solutions in New Haven. “All I want is to find a cure. But that takes research and a great deal of money.”

More than 6,000 Connecticut residents, like Langello, live with the effects of multiple sclerosis. The cause is unknown, and, as a result, there currently is no cure. Symptoms can include, among other things, numbness in the limbs, difficulties with vision and speech, stiffness and, in some more severe cases, total paralysis. The progress, severity, and specific symptoms of MS in any one person cannot be predicted.

The first annual golf event is expected to attract more than 70 participants, who will play best-ball style. The donation to play is $150 per person which will include a lunch reception and awards ceremony. There is a $40 donation for attending luncheon activities only. The event also offers a variety of contributor and ad book opportunities.

Despite her diagnosis, Langello, who is on staff at Dermatologic Cosmetic Labs in East Haven, maintains a positive attitude that has proven to be an inspiration to those around her especially her brother just as he is for her.

“I hope this first golf classic will significantly help to raise funds and awareness,” said Langello. “My brother is my hero. I am grateful beyond words to know that he would go above and beyond on my behalf.”

Funds raised through Greater Connecticut Chapter events and others, such as Helen’s Heroes Golf Classic, ensure ongoing scientific research to find a cure and provide for vital programs and services offered by the chapter to those in the state battling MS.

Early sponsor commitments include Bender Plumbing and Harty Integrated Solutions. For more information, to learn more about sponsor opportunities or to register for the first annual Helen’s Heroes Golf Classic, please contact Bob Lukaszek at (203) 623-3757 or e-mail at bobl@hartynet.com. For more information on multiple sclerosis, its effects and the many ways to become involved, please visit http://www.ctfightsms.org/.

3/8/07

 

CUTLINE: Bob Lukaszek and his sister Helen Langello enjoy some bonding time at the National MS Society, Greater Connecticut Chapter 2006 Annual Meeting and Awards Ceremony held Sunday, March 4, at the Hartford Marriott in Rocky Hill, Conn. Lukaszek is coordinating the first annual Helen’s Heroes Golf Classic in honor of his sister, who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) four years ago. Proceeds will benefit the Greater Connecticut Chapter and its efforts to fund scientific research to find a cure and provide programs and services offered to the more than 6,000 Connecticut residents living with the potentially debilitating effects of MS.

 

Karen E. Butler
Vice President of Communications
Greater Connecticut Chapter
tel +1.860.714.2300
cell +1.860.997.4487
 
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