The residents of Parker Jewish Institute in New Hyde Park did their part to raise money and awareness for breast cancer research during “Wheel for a Cure” on Wednesday, October 27. According to Jacob Berlin, senior therapist for therapeutic recreation, the wheelchair racing event was the brainchild of compassionate residents that wanted to make a difference during National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
“You can’t make a left or a right without knowing somebody who has cancer,” said Berlin, whose wife is a breast cancer survivor. “This is such a great cause. . . It hit home with me.”
The fund raising program – similar to a walkathon – positioned residents in a ring inside the main auditorium where they would do laps in wheelchairs.
“Originally, they wanted to do laps around the building but we had to minimize it a tad,” said Berlin
After a brief statement by President and CEO of Parker Jewish, Michael N. Rosenblut, it was off to the races. Wearing pink ribbons and bracelets, around 50 wheelers got plenty of exercise circling the auditorium while others enjoyed music provided by a DJ.
“It’s wonderful that they want to contribute,” said Rosenblut.
After just one hour of activities, the residents were able to raise $500 for breast cancer research. There was no clear winner of the first annual Wheel for a Cure, but the residents of Parker Jewish demonstrated that they have remained vibrant and visible in the community at large.
