ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) and MS (multiple sclerosis) can strike at any age and without discrimination. Just ask brother Joe Comber, landscape architect Steve Saling, acclaimed filmmaker Patrick O’Brien, chemical engineer Jack Geilfuss or soccer star Toni Epifani. These are just a few of the ALS and MS residents who live at the award-winning Leonard Florence Center for Living (LFCL), the country’s first urban model Green House® skilled nursing facility. The Center features specialized ALS and MS homes with cutting-edge technology that enables these individuals, and others, to live as independently as possible.
The 10th annual ALS & MS Walk for Living will take place at 10 a.m. on Sunday, Sept. 30, at 165 Captains Row in Chelsea. Expected to attract over 1,000 walkers, the two-mile walk will benefit the LFCL residents and these revolutionary homes. In the past decade, this event has raised over $1.6 million for resident care and programs. The Center, operated by Chelsea Jewish Lifecare, cares for more individuals with ALS than any place else in the world.
What’s so unique about the Center is that residents, many of whom are completely immobilized, can control lights, turn on the TV, call for the elevator, open doors and raise window shades, all with the help of a computer and sensor that tracks head and eye movements for instruction. In essence, they can control anything with an on-and-off switch with their eyes, allowing them to move freely through the entire residence.
Red Sox legend Dwight Evans, whose son, Justin, is currently a resident at LFCL, will be among those walking this year. “I feel very fortunate that Justin is able to benefit from such excellent care at The Leonard Florence Center for Living,” said Evans. “It has given my wife, Susan, and I comfort to know that he is being so well taken care of in a nurturing home environment that still allows for his independence. It is a very special place.”
This year’s Walk for Living will honor Phyllis and Alan Bolotin. As long-time residents of the North Shore, the Bolotins have contributed to organizations for years with their generosity, time, passion and dedication. “Phyllis and I are so proud to be involved with the 2018 Walk for Living,” said Alan Bolotin. “The ALS and MS residents at the Leonard Florence Center for Living continuously inspire and amaze us.”
Beloved radio personality Matt Siegel, host of “Matty in the Morning” on KISS 108, will once again act as emcee to kick off the walk. Major corporate sponsors include Lundgren Management, M&T Bank, Boston Textile and Barrett & Singal. The Independent Newspaper Group is the media sponsor. Immediately following the walk, there will be a barbecue hosted by Chili’s, face painting, live dance performances, a petting zoo, a photo booth and a raffle.
“I am honored to emcee the 10th annual ALS & MS Boston Walk for Living,” said Matt Siegel. “Over the years I’ve had the opportunity to get to know the amazing residents at the Leonard Florence Center. Their incredible courage, strength, humor and love of life are an inspiration to us all.”
Registration begins at 9 a.m. on Sunday, Sept. 30, and the Walk begins at 10 a.m. The Walk for Living is one of the few walks that are dog-friendly. To start or sponsor a team or to make a much-appreciated donation, please visit walkforliving.org or contact walk director Maura Graham at mgraham@chelseajewish.org or 617-409-8973.
+ More... - Less...165 Captains Row
Chelsea, MA 02150
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