UPDATE! I've been notified by the American Liver Foundation that this year's event was a huge success, attracting a record-breaking crowd of over 2,000 walkers who raised an unsurpassed $188,000! Thanks to all who came, and to all who contributed. Together, let's make this bigger and more successful every year!
After a rainy walk last year - and a close call with rain the night prior this year - it was nothing but sunshine and smiles for a record crowd of walkers for the American Liver Foundation. This was the third year I had the pleasure of hosting the Liver Life Walk in Boston, and it's a noticeably larger event than just a few years ago, with about 1500 walkers enrolled for 2009! Dedication to the American Liver Foundation was apparent in all ages - from the beautiful toddler, Jaelynn, who happened upon the stage during the Opening Ceremonies (looking so wonderful just a year after her liver transplant!) to the faces in the crowd who've been with the Liver Foundation for over 15 years. Today's walk around Castle Island wasn't the end of fundraising, but rather, the beginning. So, if you'd like to donate, it's not too late to sponsor a walker - as of this writing, there's still nearly $100,000 more to raise! Folks have become creative, too - check out the video and you'll meet Emily, who paints her own notecards, with proceeds donated to the ALF. This is a dedicated group of folks, and the dedication isn't limited to this year's walk - a half marathon is scheduled for November, and the Patient Match Program pairs full marathon runners with patients!
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