'A Giver Of His Time, Energy': Murray Dychtwald, Toms River Hero

TOMS RIVER, NJ — When times are tough, heroes emerge. We all know someone who's making a difference right now as we live through unprecedented and changing times.

Here at Patch, we've launched an initiative to help recognize these heroes making a difference in their communities. We’re working to let all your neighbors know about these outstanding people and their stories.

This submission comes from Barbara Schuldt, who nominated Murray Dychtwald of Toms River, who she knows from his work for The Breathe Foundation, a nonprofit that supports children and adults with cystic fibrosis.

What does the local hero do?

He raises money for children and adults with cystic fibrosis disease.

Why do you believe the local hero should be recognized or honored?

For the past 10 years Mr. Dychtwald has been working tirelessly for The Breathe Foundation. He is the original founder of this organization. He fundraises money to help pay for medical bills devices and pharmaceuticals for people with cystic fibrosis.

When Hurricane Sandy blew through Toms River, he ran the kitchen at Toms River High School East that fed more than 40,000 people in 10 days. He was recognized by Ocean County, which awarded him Citizen of the Year. Prior to that Mr. Dychtwald also was a board member and volunteer for the Ocean County Vocational Technical School. He was the chief organizer for Chef's Night Out for 15 years. Helping children and young adults has been the center of his core being. Prior to that he ran fundraisers for the New Jersey Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. He has been a giver of his time, energy and contacts for all his life. And to see him being recognized for his achievements would be a small gesture for all the people that he has touched in his lifetime.

What's one thing you want everyone to know about the local hero?

He’s a man of honor.

Thank you for all you do, Murray Dychtwald!

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Know someone making a difference in town? Nominate them as a local hero here.