Fund-Raising Golf Tournament to Benefit Research and Scholarship for UB Physical Therapy Students

BUFFALO, N.Y. - The University at Buffalo School of Health Related Professions and the Muscular Dystrophy Association are hosting a fund-raising golf tournament and dinner in tribute to physical therapist Alfred T. Caffiero, a role model for students, faculty, patients and friends alike.

The inaugural ATC Golf Classic and Dinner will be held July 2 at the Lancaster Country Club, 6061 Broadway, Lancaster. The day will begin with a continental breakfast at 7 a.m. and tee times in the morning and afternoon. A reception at 6 p.m.will be followed by dinner at 7 p.m.

Proceeds will be split between funding for research done by the Muscular Dystrophy Association in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), commonly known as Lou Gehrig's disease, and funding for an annual scholarship for a UB student who has "demonstrated academic excellence, public service and promise to the field of physical therapy."

Caffiero, a man who maintains his patience and humor while personally battling ALS, continues to dedicate his life to research, treatment, education and advocacy within the field of physical therapy.

A clinical instructor in the UB School of Health Related Professions and a physical therapist who has practiced for more than 40 years in Western New York, Caffiero has treated hundreds of patients, including professional athletes, the elderly and the disabled. He also has mentored dozens of UB physical therapy students who worked with him as interns or came to work for him as newly graduated physical therapists.

Caffiero graduated from Ithaca College with his bachelor's degree in 1960 and began practicing at South Buffalo Mercy Hospital in 1961. In 1962, he moved to St. Joseph's Intercommunity Hospital, where he directed the physical therapy program for 25 years. In 1980, Caffiero and his partners -- Bill Hahn and Walter Syzmanski -- founded Western New York Physical and Occupational Therapy Group.

For more information or to buy tickets, contact Bill Hahn at 684-0400 or email ATCGolfClassic@aol.com.