NORTHPORT — For several years, Harborfields High School physical education teacher Bryan Proctor has led an annual four-mile swim across Northport Bay as a means to raise awareness and funds for the Alzheimer's Association of Long Island. Bryan became involved after Alzheimer's disease affected his own family. While in college, Bryan heard of the hardships that came along in the caring of his grandfather, which led him to think of the swim as a means to help families dealing with the illness.

The swim began with Bryan alone, but as word about the event spread, more people became involved over the years. Seeing others participate, Bryan feels a sense of satisfaction in that they are all contributing to a great cause.