The local support group for the mysterious chronic disease called Sjogren's (pronounced SHOW-GRINS) will host its second annual "Walkabout" for the State of New York, to help to raise funds to support research and education programs offered by the Sjögren's Syndrome Foundation.

Advanced Vision TheraTears, Winthrop-University Hospital, WalMart, Allergan, North Shore LIJ Health System, Woodbury Optical Studio, Malone,Tauber and Sohn, P.C., Mollick Professional Center are all proudly sponsoring this event. The event will be held at the Broadway Mall in Hicksville on Saturday, March 29. Registration will begin at 8:30 a.m. and the walk will step off at 9:30 a.m.

Sjögren's Syndrome has no known cause or cure, and the many people affected by this disease desperately need research and education funds to help them, as well as the upward of 4 million people in the United States who are suffering from this unusual autoimmune affliction. Sjögren's syndrome is a major concern since it attacks more women than breast cancer.

Sjögren's syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disease, in which the white blood cells attack the moisture producing glands. Approximately 10 percent of its victims will develop lymphoma, a form of cancer. All proceeds from the "Walkabout" will go directly to the Sjögren's Syndrome Foundation, the only nonprofit health organization dedicated solely to Sjögren's syndrome.

The Long Island area support group asks you to join as a corporate team or sponsor, a donor, or a walker. Walkers are encouraged to invite their family and friends of all ages to participate in this important fundraiser.

Walk with us and help us to increase awareness of Sjögren's syndrome. In order to sign up or obtain more information about how you can participate in the second annual Long Island Walkabout, please call the Sjögren's Syndrome Foundation at 1-800-475-6473, ext. 217 or visit www.Moistureseekers.com