More than 24 million Americans have asthma and chances are that every individual knows at least one or two people who suffer from this epidemic. All local residents from Farmingdale and other neighboring communities are invited to join with their neighbors, family members and friends at the American Lung Association's "Blow the Whistle on Asthma" 5K Walk to be held this October. This walk is a nationwide effort to bring attention to and raise funds to battle asthma.

The walk will kickoff at the Team Captain's Kickoff Reception, scheduled to be held on Wednesday, Aug. 13 beginning at 6:30 p.m. at Jillian's in Farmingdale (in Airport Plaza, adjacent to Republic Airport on Route 110). The actual walk will be held on October 4 at Belmont Lake State Park in Babylon. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. and the walk begins at 10 a.m.

At the kickoff reception, attendees will learn how to become involved in the 5 Kilometer Asthma Walk and meet others participating in the event. In addition, those interested in participating will receive all the materials, training and enthusiasm needed to kick off their team's participation; as well as hear the Asthma Walk chair people and supporters share their motivation for involvement. A complimentary buffet dinner will be served to all in attendance.

Attendees do not need to be a registered team leader and are not obligated to become a leader. Anyone interested in participating is strongly encouraged to attend.

"The American Lung Association of Nassau-Suffolk is recruiting individuals, small businesses and corporations to organize teams," said Deborah Carioto, executive director of the American Lung Association of Nassau-Suffolk. "Last year more than 200 people walked with whistles in hand. This year we want to sign up thousands, and this event will contribute greatly toward reaching this goal."

Asthma is the most common chronic medical condition in the United States. There are more than 24 million Americans with asthma, and at least 33,500 of them are children on Long Island alone. The walk raises critically needed funds for research, advocacy and education on asthma, plus it helps raise awareness of the condition.

The American Lung Association has been fighting lung disease for nearly 100 years. With the generous support of the public and the help of volunteers, the organization has seen many advances against lung disease. However, their work is not finished. As they look forward to their second century, the American Lung Association will continue to strive to make breathing easier for everyone through their efforts in research, advocacy and community education and service. The American Lung Association's activities are supported by donations to Christmas Seals(r) and other voluntary contributions. Residents may obtain additional information by visiting the American Lung Association website at www.lungusa.org or by calling or by calling 1-800-LUNGUSA. For more information call Jennifer at 631- 231-5864, ext. 24 or e-mail jwalsh@alans.org.