Kath always felt that flowers at these events were such a shame because they usually just got throw away after. This gave me an idea (who am I kidding; Kathleen put it in my head). A few weeks ago, she had a virtual appointment with her MDA doctor who, during the course of conversation (you know how she loved to chat) revealed that, due to Covid-19, much of the funding for his work had gone away. Now that you know the story, here’s the deal. In lieu of flowers, I am asking to please help honor and support Kathleen's mission to fund those who are doing the research needed to find a cure for Muscular Dystrophy. Donations will go directly to fund Dr. Michio Hirano, one of the many great doctors who helped Kathleen navigate her medical journey. Online donations may be made to The Merritt Center of Research at https://medicine.givenow.columbia.edu/?alloc=20934. You can also send a check made payable to the "TRUSTEES OF COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY.” Please indicate "IMO KATHLEEN TORTORA/MERRITT CENTER RESEARCH" on the memo line and mail to: Columbia University Gift Systems, P.O. Box 1523, New York, NY 10008. Thank you all!

TORTORA - Kathleen, 64 of West Islip, NY passed away on Friday, July 31, 2020. Kathleen was born December 11, 1955 in Amityville, NY. She married her beloved husband, Ralph, on June 20, 1981. Kathleen was an entrepreneur and dedicated advocate for Muscular Dystrophy research. Kathleen was the loving wife of Ralph, the devoted mother of Kristina Tortora (Niko Lopez) and Nicholas (Alexa) Tortora, and the cherished godmother of Jessica Lennon. We welcome family and friends to join us for a Memorial Service on Thursday, August 6th from 2:00 pm until 4:00 pm and 7:00 pm until 9:00 pm at The Fredrick J. Chapey & Sons Funeral Home, 1225 Montauk Hwy., West Islip. www.chapeyfamily.com