Young Survivor Will Help Light The Night, Fund Lifesaving Research

Fifteen-year-old Zachary Pollack is thankful to have survived acute lymphocytic leukemia. And his family in Sandy Hook is grateful their son overcame his battle.

Now they are collectively determined to help build awareness about the approximately 1,012,533 people in the United States living with a blood cancer, and will show their support by participating in The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s (LLS) Light The Night Walk on Saturday, September 24, at Newtown Youth Academy in Fairfield Hills.

In September 2005, Zach was diagnosed with high risk T-cell acute lymphocytic leukemia. Zach’s treatment included intensive chemotherapy along with cranial radiation. In January 2009, he completed a very aggressive chemotherapy protocol that took 40 months to finish. He faced the ultimate challenge with strength, determination, and a witty sense of humor. Zach is now cancer free and is a survivor.

Light The Night, LLS’s annual fundraising walk held in communities throughout the country, features teams of co-workers, families, and friends walking together in twilight holding illuminated balloons — white for survivors, red for supporters, and gold to remember those who have died.

The walk commemorates lives touched by blood cancers. It is a celebration featuring music, refreshments and family activities.

“Light The Night is the nation’s opportunity to pay tribute to lives touched by blood cancer,” said Jean Montano, the local chapter executive director. “We are grateful to all of our participants for supporting this lifesaving program. The funds raised help the society support leading-edge research and provide much-needed patient services.”

Last year, participants in Light The Night Walk raised more than $39 million, nationwide. For more information or to register for a local walk, contact the Connecticut chapter of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society at 203-665-1400 or visit www.lightthenight.org/ct.