Scott Muller has always dreamed of hiking the Grand Canyon. When he was given the opportunity to do so--and help others in the process--he got his wish and then some. Muller is one of 30 volunteers chosen by the Long Island Chapter of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society to participate in its Hike For Discovery this May 20. Each member is trying to raise at least $3,700, for which the proceeds will go toward cancer aid and research. This is the second year that the LLS is doing the program, but it is the inaugural season for the Long Island Chapter.

One needn't spend much time with Muller to realize that the Deer Park High School science teacher, already an active volunteer for the Ride For Life (an organization that raises funds and awareness for ALS), has an instinct for helping others. When a friend alerted him of the hike last year, Muller, a lover of the outdoors, jumped at the chance to join it-- especially since his close friend, Travis Bose, is in remission from Hodgkin's disease.

"Travis is an inspiration, but I'm doing it for everyone," Muller said. "When I'm surrounded by such good people, I feel like doing good myself."

However, he wasn't the only Long Islander eager to do the program.

North Massapequa resident Diane Nocerino has also been affected by the people she's encountered. When she began volunteering for the LLS in 2005 with some other family members, Nocerino, a physical therapist and marathon runner, didn't personally know anyone who'd suffered from a blood cancer. However, she became inspired by the survivors whom she's met.

"The patient heroes are some of the best people I know," the Farmingdale High School alum said. "One of the best things about doing the events is having the opportunity to make friends and meet some great people." Indeed, that's one of the biggest rewards the program offers.

Nocerino also mentors hikers.

"A mentor's role involves providing support for new participants. We call and give advice about fundraising ideas and training. As a mentor, I will also make sure everyone has what they need on the hike, make sure no one gets left behind, etc.," she explained.

Nicole Kowaleski, campaign manager for the LLS, reported that so many people volunteered (and only so many are allowed into the national parks at a time), a lottery was held to pick the lucky 30.

"I'm happy that the response was so great," she said. "It's always wonderful being able to raise money for such a good cause."

Kowaleski is quick to note that the hike is just one of many programs the LLS runs, which include the Light the Night Walk, and the Team in Training, where participants engage in marathons and triathlons.

However, "there are events for every fitness level," she said. "We have something for everyone. Even with the hike, there are several levels."

She became involved with the LLS when she did some team projects back in 2000. Then an event planner for Computer Associates, Kowaleski found that she had a knack for fundraising. She enjoyed working for the LLS so much, she soon joined the staff full time.

"My mom's a nurse, so I was raised with the idea of helping others," she explained. "We also had a friend of the family who was diagnosed with cancer, so it's affected me personally. Now I'm just really passionate about my job. My friends joke with me because I talk about it all the time, but I'm so impressed with the work the LLS does. Seventy-five cents of each dollar goes toward the mission. I've also met so many great people who've touched me with their stories. There are survivors of cancer doing the hike, which is just amazing."

Kowaleski reported that as they've prepared for the hike - participants traverse a different Long Island trail every weekend - the volunteers have become like a family.

"I give everyone so much credit," she said. "I can't wait until we actually get to the Grand Canyon and the reality of what we've been working toward hits everyone."

"The participants really get to know each other and develop close bonds while hiking for the same cause - finding a cure," added Nocerino.

For more information on the hike and the LLS, or to join the team for next season visit www.lls.org or www.hikefordiscovery.org or call 631-752-8500. To sponsor Nocerino checks should be made out to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and mailed to her directly at 377 Briarwood Rd., N. Massapequa, NY 11758.