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Public's support sought for April 28 Parkinson's walk FILE PHOTO Rose McTiernan (l) and Claire Salamon pose with Sayreville Mayor Kennedy O'Brien during an April 2006 Borough Council meeting. SAYREVILLE - Two local advocates for Parkinson's disease awareness are seeking support for the upcoming Parkinson's Unity Walk in New York City, the largest grassroots fundraising event for research of the disease. Borough residents Rose McTiernan and Claire Salamon, both living with Parkinson's disease (PD), are gearing up for what is expected to be the most successful of the 13 annual walks held in New York for the disease. Last year's event was attended by more than 10,000 supporters and raised $1.4 million for research. "It's a really nice day," said Salamon, who's been going since 1998 and met the likes of Michael J. Fox, actress and comedian May May Ali, among other celebrities who attend. "They're all friendly and eager to talk to you. It makes for a great day." Fox, who has Parkinson's, can often be found signing autographs for fans. "He has done so many positive things for PD, such as public awareness and raising funds for research," Salamon said, noting that Jim Cantore of The Weather Channel is another visible celebrity supporter. This year's walk will be held April 28, starting at 1 p.m. in Manhattan's Central Park. The two-mile circular walk in the park will benefit seven organizations that work to find a cure for the disease, a progressive disorder of the central nervous system. McTiernan and Salamon have also become involved in advocating for awareness on a local level, and have received support from Sayreville Mayor Kennedy O'Brien and the Borough Council. The governing body recently passed a resolution proclaiming April as Parkinson's Disease Awareness Month and acknowledging the efforts of the American Parkinson's Disease Association, for which Salamon has long volunteered. McTiernan and Salamon are encouraging members of the public to help by making a pledge or participating in the Unity Walk. To donate, visit the Web site www.unitywalk.org, click on "2007 Walk," then "Sponsor Walker" and type in either name, McTiernan or Salamon. General donations may also be made on the Web site, which also offers information on how to participate. ---------------------------------------------------------------------- To sign-off Parkinsn send a message to: mailto:[log in to unmask] In the body of the message put: signoff parkinsn