On October 27/07, the 6th Annual Pierino Peloso Annual Fundraiser in Support of the ALS Society of Ontario - a Dinner Gala and Concert was held at the Cleo Banquet Hall, where approx. 375 guests enjoyed an elegant evening of hope, harmony and support. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease is a rapidly progressive neuromuscular disease that will cause the body to become completely paralyzed within 2 to 5 years. This paralysis will mean for those afflicted that over time, they will not walk, talk, eat or eventually breath unaided. Everyday 2 to 3 Canadians die, leaving families in emotional, physical and financial ruin. In Canada we have recently lost ALS sufferers as young as 17 years of age. MC’s Joanne Schnurr and Michael O’Byrne of CTV-CJOH truly added a dynamic and touching aspect to the evening. During the opening ceremonies, guests were invited to take a moment of silence and remembrance of Pierino (ALS-2000) and his sister Matilde (ALS-1989) and in memory of all loved ones. A guest from each table lit the top candle of the candelabra; then our father’s close friend, Damaso Colasante, played Il Silenzio, on his trumpet.

This was followed by the presentation of our original ALS theme song “I Celebrate All That You Are”. Keynote speaker, Zack Werner, Canadian Idol Judge and National Chair and Spokesperson for the Walk for ALS was invited to the stage – his openness of how emotional he was upon hearing the music and how he was personally touched brought him to tears. He delivered a very moving and touching speech and shared personal thoughts about losing his Dad (ALS-1996) and about his voice and commitment to raising awareness and funds for ALS.

Father Paul McKeown offered a most significant and encouraging prayer in a manner that brought comfort, hope and courage to all. Paul Dewar, MP (Ottawa Centre) also attended the function and read the statement he made in the House of Commons on Oct. 26th, before Question Period; he talked about how devastating an illness ALS is, about the Pierino Peloso fundraiser and our family’s devotion to defeat ALS. We are honoured. A cheque for $5,000 was presented by Ben Steylein on behalf of Mark McRury, Branch Manager of Scotiabank (Preston Branch). This gesture, as well as the help offered throughout the night by Ben and staff, Sarah Bellissimo, Ruth Herman and Czarina Troutman is appreciated.

Maureen Sheahan, President and CEO of the ALS Society of Ontario also delivered a wonderful speech. Marion Williams, Regional Director, ALS Society of Ontario, graciously presented Recognition Awards to three recipients for their commitment Angela Ierullo, Joanne Schnurr, and Jeff Mauler . Pierino’s grandchildren Alyssa Radulescu and Alexandra Beraldin, great-nephew Emidio DÁlessio and niece Marietta D’Alessio each graced dinner with a powerful musical performance.....talent sublime.... Two orchestras - Latin Sensation Ramon & Sylvie and The Reunion in Motion Orchestra entertained the crowd. What an exciting time it was when Zack Werner decided to join band members and performed a few numbers himself!

Thank you to Il Postino and Tele-30 for their continued support in raising awareness of ALS and of fundraising efforts. We thank our generous community and sponsors, the media, our family and friends, for all playing a role in making this a most successful and memorable event. We thank God and our beloved father and Guardian Angel Pierino for granting us the blessed opportunity and strength to do such fundraisers and for guiding our actions in the fight to defeat ALS.

A special thank you goes to good friend, publicist and photographer Giovanni for connecting us to Zack Werner through his CHIN radio interview in March 2007. Thank you also to Progressive Choices Editor, Nancy Thompson, who believed in this mission and who will feature a story -- Mission to Defeat ALS in the national magazine’s next issue which hits the stands nation-wide Dec. 2007. Thank you to our Angel on Earth, our precious Mom Luisa.

Thank you to all our sponsors. GOD BLESS…… Pierino Peloso’s Family: Luisa; Pierangela, Donato, Pierluca; Antonietta, Angelo, Anthony, Jessica, Alexandra, Gianpiero; Claudio, Valérie, Gabriella, Pierino; Marisa, Lorenzo, Alyssa, Fabio.