Local Youth Recognized For Raising Awareness

The Clarkstown Town Board recognized for his fundraising ability and his dedication to raising people’s awareness about HSP, Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia, a rare neuromuscular joint disorder that primarily affects the legs.

Lipson, 12 year old, has the genetic disease and at Tuesday night’s meeting, he gave a brief Power Point presentation about it.

Lipson of New City explained that two to six people out of every 100,000 could have the disorder.  There is no current treatment to cure or prevent it but swimming is one of the best sports to alleviate the stiffness HSP frequently causes.

Lipson organized an April fundraiser, Laps for Legs, at the New York Sports Club in Garnerville to collect money for HSP research and he swam 100 laps. He received a certificate from the board and their congratulations.

“Zachary Lipson has done something remarkable, “ said Councilman George Hoehmann. “He has raised over $6,000.”

Lipson said, “ I hope there will be a cure soon so kids like me and adults don’t have to suffer.” 

Lipson's mother, Melissa, is Highview Elementary's Guidance Counselor. If you see her, say congrats