This year, each of us faces great challenges and significant changes. Imagine weathering the economic climate while training for the most prestigious marathon in the world. Not only has Christopher Regan, Mystic, decided to reach this highly athletic goal on April 20, but he will also valiantly raise thousands of dollars for those who suffer from life-threatening liver diseases. Nearly a dozen members of the marathon team endure liver disease themselves.
This year, 240 runners from 26 states comprise the American Liver Foundation’s Run for Research (RFR) team. These individuals will run 26.2 miles to help the 30 million Americans – one in ten – who are affected by liver disease. Nearly 20 percent of Americans have fatty liver disease, a byproduct of obesity in children and adults, 1.4 million Americans are chronically infected with hepatitis B and over 15,000 children are hospitalized yearly with a form of liver disease. RFR money raised goes to research, education and advocacy for over 100 types of liver diseases, including hepatitis.
On Marathon Monday, hours of rigorous training will be a dim memory as these runners tackle the course from Hopkinton, MA, through the hills of Newton and on to the finish line in Boston. Many are paired with individuals who are afflicted with liver disease, further emphasizing their commitment to the cause. To make a donation to a Run for Research® team member from your town, please visit www.liverteam.org.
