The Cooley's Anemia Foundation, a 501(c) (3), nonprofit organization, will be hosting their "Miles for Smiles" Ride & Walk, on September 29, at Atlantis Marine World Aquarium. This fundraiser will bring hundreds of determined riders and walkers as well as thousands of dedicated Long Islanders together to help benefit Cooley's anemia patients and their families.

Thalassemia is the medical term for Cooley's anemia. This is a genetic, fatal blood disorder. Patients born with this disorder have a deficiency in producing normal red blood cells. In order to live, patients must receive a blood transfusion every two weeks. Unfortunately the repeated transfusions deposit an inordinate amount of iron in their systems. This iron overloads the major organs and patients succumb to cardiac failure. Until recently, patients born with Cooley's anemia rarely lived beyond their first decade of life. Medication was developed to remove some of the excess iron from the body. This research has enabled patients to double, and for some, triple their life span. However, they still die much too young.

The mission for this "Miles for Smiles" Ride & Walk is to help raise funds for much needed medical research to help find a cure for this fatal disease.

During the day riders, families, and supporters will gather along the Peconic Riverfront adjacent to Atlantis Marine World. Starbucks will serve coffee and donuts in the morning and Applebee's will serve lunch in the afternoon. A Kiddie Korner will be available for the pleasure of the youngsters. All participants will receive four complimentary tickets to Atlantis Marine World and a t-shirt.