A family raises heart disease awareness

John Gallucci died after a sudden heart attack on Jan. 24, 2010, a day his family will never forget. This year Michelle Gallucci, his only daughter, wanted to do something in remembrance and with the support of her family, she plans to raise $3,000 for the American Heart Association.

“One in three Americans has some form of cardiovascular disease. Some, like our dad, don’t know they have heart disease until it’s too late,” said Michelle Gallucci.

Walking with approximately 35 family and friends, Michelle Gallucci will take part in the 5K walk for the American Heart Association at Jones Beach on Sept. 25 and to raise funds, Bagelicious in East Meadow and Tropical Smoothie Café in Levittown both agreed to host fundraisers.

“Everybody loves food,” said Michelle Gallucci, “And they have the best bagels here,” she said about Bagelicious during the fundraiser on Monday. An exact amount raised during the Bagelicious event is still unknown, but the owner said it was one of the best event turnouts.

To promote the fundraiser, Bagelicious posted signs, Gail Gallucci, Michelle’s mother, told co-workers in the East Meadow School District and Nick Gallucci, Michelle’s brother, informed the fire department.

Michelle Gallucci hopes the walk will increase awareness about heart disease. “Be aware, be healthy and go to the doctor,” she said. “You never know when someone you love will pass away.”

John Gallucci was only 54 years old when he died and had gone to the doctor three months before his heart attack. He never knew he had heart disease.

To make a donation to “Team John” visit the Heart Walk website at http://heartwalk.kintera.org/nassaucounty/johnsteam.