Los Angeles: On Sunday, July 7, 2002, seventeen officers from the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), Rampart Community Police Station, participated in the Dina La Vigna Breath of Life Triathlon/Relay Fundraising event. The event was held at Marina Park in Oxnard, California.

The event was the main fundraiser for Primary Immunodeficiency (PI). Primary Immunodeficiency is a set of more than 80 hereditary disorders caused by a defect in one or more genes responsible for the development of key components of the human immune system. It afflicts more than 500,000 Americans, most of who are children. This year’s proceeds will be used to enhance PI treatment facilities at Mt. Sinai Hospital in New York City, Mattel Children’s Hospital at UCLA, and Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles.

The participation of these Los Angeles police officers, who unselfishly donated their time and effort for this worthwhile event, is demonstrative of the personal and professional commitment, by LAPD employees, to improving the quality of life for those in our communities. As a result of the altruistic actions of these officers, several hundred dollars were provided to this worthy cause.

The officers who participated in the relay race can be made available to the media, for interviews, upon request.

This press release was prepared by Public Information Officer Eduardo Funes, Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.