Raising Heartrates Joins Forces with Helen Hayes Hospital

New York, NY, June 15, 2006 --(PR.com)-- Raising Heartrates, a group of hard-core and dedicated female triathletes with a heartfelt mission, will devote its fundraising efforts for 2007 to benefit the Helen Hayes Hospital (HHH) Adapted Sports and Recreation Program, it was announced today by Stephanie Habif, Director of Development and Outreach, Raising Heartrates. Each year, Raising Heartrates raises funds for a chosen charity primarily through its annual “racy” calendar. The calendar features New York City-based female triathletes who compete in all levels of the sport.

This year, Raising Heartrates is earmarking the Helen Hayes Hospital hand cycling program. The hospital is home to Helen’s Angels, a competitive hand cycling team. Hand cycling builds strength and endurance in individuals with spinal cord injury and other mobility limitations. Funds raised through the Raising Heartrates calendar will go toward the purchase of additional hand cycles, which in turn will expand the program to more individuals who are awaiting cycles.

“Raising Heartrates enthusiastically embraces the spirit of fitness and competition and is proud to partner with HHH, an organization equally committed to challenging people of all abilities to be the best they can be,” said Stephanie Habif.

“We are so thrilled that Raising Heartrates has chosen us as the recipient of their annual fundraiser,” said Elaine DeFrancesco Associate Director of Physical Therapy, Helen Hayes Hospital. “The monies raised will be such a tremendous benefit to our Hand Cycles Program, and will enable other athletes to participate.”

Helen Hayes Hospital is the New York metropolitan region’s premier, and one of the nation’s leading, specialty physical rehabilitation facilities, dedicated to enabling individuals of all abilities to lead active, healthy lifestyles. The hospital’s recreational therapy staff, along with physical therapists and other rehabilitation professionals, encourages patients and individuals with disabilities to explore new sports, as well as activities enjoyed prior to being injured.

Participation in sports and recreational pursuits helps to make recovery possible.

For more information on Raising Heartrates, please visit www.raisingheartrates.org or contact Stephanie Habif at steph@raisingheartrates.org. For more information on Helen Hayes Hospital, please visit www.helenhayeshospital.org.

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CONTACTS:

Lynne Davis/Mosaic NYC - 212-846-5737

Mary Creagh/ Helen Hayes Hospital - 845-786-4225