What an amazing time I experienced on the very first WALK for Vitiligo Awareness across the Brooklyn Bridge.
First I'd like to thank everyone who participated. This would not be possible without your involvement!
A very special thank you to Dr Raymond Boissy, President/Chairman of The National Vitiligo Foundation. Dr Boissy came from Cinncinatti, Ohio.
Lastly, thank you to the NYPD for their professionalism and exceptional involvement. Alexander, Austin and I were so impressed with the NYPD. It was so cool to have the NYPD cars infront and behind the WALK across the bridge.

 

As a mother of two sons, ages 13 & 14 both diagnosed with Vitiligo (A skin disease where the pigmentation is destroyrd by white blood cells, therefore white spots appear through out the body. This disease has NO cure. It is not contagious or terminal, however the emotional impact, especially in children can be devasting). I am passionate about awareness of this disease, which affects close to 4 million americans and 1% of the world's population. In India, a married woman who developes this disease, will be allianated from her family and the disease will be grounds for divorce.

 

I believe with awareness comess acceptance!

 

I have a responsibiltiy and have made a commitment to my children. This responsibility, involves doing what ever necessary to educate the public. The discrimination of Vitiligo has everything to do with COLOR but nothing to do with RACE.
When information is made available and the public is made aware, it is when the understanding, respect and opportunities are available to those suffering from the emotional impact of this disease.

 

I have succesfully petitioned NJ Governor Corzine for A proclamation. Proclaiming the month of April 2008 Vitiligo Awareness Month. I held a educational forum at Wayne Hills High School for over 350 freshman students and also a Meet and Greet in East Windsor, NJ for patients and their families.

I pledge my commitment to this cause and make an appeal to those with vitiligo, their families and friends to get involved and support this cause. Please visit www.nvfi.org for more information. Click under the legislative news to see a copy the NJ proclamation for Vitiligo Awareness Month.

 

God Bless!

Maria Balarin
http://mariabalarin.spaces.live.com/