#United States #Chicago #Liver Disease #Chicago Marathon #American Liver Foundation

ALF's Participation in the 2025 Chicago Marathon

The American Liver Foundation (ALF) is delighted to announce its role as an official charity partner for the 2025 Bank of America Chicago Marathon, which is scheduled to take place on October 12, 2025. This marks yet another opportunity for the foundation to harness the excitement and energy of this renowned event to raise awareness surrounding liver disease, a condition impacting millions across the nation.

A Celebration of Endurance and Awareness

Lorraine Stiehl, CEO of ALF, expressed profound gratitude for the chance to participate in one of the most exhilarating marathon events in the country. She stated, "ALF is honored to be an official charity partner for the upcoming Bank of America Chicago Marathon. As thousands of runners prepare to hit the vibrant streets of Chicago, we aim to raise critical awareness of liver diseases that often go unnoticed."

For ALF, the marathon symbolizes much more than just a race. It represents a powerful platform to educate the public, engage supporters, and inspire action regarding liver health. Every year, the foundation emphasizes the importance of liver disease prevention, alongside its commitment to funding vital medical research and providing support for affected individuals and families.

Fundraising Efforts and Impact

Excitingly, ALF’s 2025 Chicago Marathon team has already exceeded its fundraising goals, with all proceeds dedicated to its mission of supporting the liver disease community. The team consists of members with varying experience levels, many of whom have personal connections to liver disease, making their runs resonate on a deeper level.

For instance, local Chicagoan Greg Ciaciura will be participating in his 16th marathon, dedicating his run to liver disease awareness due to his professional role as a Transplant Program Development Director at Northwestern Medicine. This year, he will be joined by his son, Dario, as they strive to make a difference through their joint efforts. Greg shared, "My son and I are thrilled to participate once again in the ALF Liver Life Challenge team. Together, we’ll be pounding the pavement, fueled by our passion for the cause."

Among the diverse group of runners, Sydney Flakus-Witte will be making her marathon debut, running in honor of her partner diagnosed with Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis six years prior. Her motivation stems from a desire to contribute toward understanding rare autoimmune liver diseases. Each runner on ALF's team carries unique stories and motivations, showcasing resilience through their personal connections to liver health challenges.

More Stories from the ALF Team

James Atkinson

James Atkinson, a first-time participant, is running as a DIY fundraiser for ALF. His drive stems from losing his father to liver disease and the hope for a brighter future for others.

Megan Daniel

Megan Daniel honors her daughter Addilyn, who underwent a liver transplant at just eight months old due to Biliary Atresia. Addilyn is now thriving at three years old, thanks to organ donation, and Megan wishes to spread awareness through her run.

Alyson Doherty

Alyson Doherty, another newcomer, will be running in honor of her aunt, a liver transplant recipient and a long-time supporter of ALF. Inspired by childhood memories of watching the ALF team run, Alyson aims to fulfill a long-held dream.

Michael Doyen

Michael Doyen returns for his second marathon, passionately representing Anne Doyen, his wife and an ALF board member, who successfully received a liver transplant facilitated by her daughter.

Jim O'Connell

Jim O'Connell brings personal motivation, having lost his father to liver cancer. This marathon represents his commitment to positive action in memory of his beloved dad.

Maddie Petre

Maddie Petre, a first-time participant and ALF's Team Captain, is running to honor her fiancé, Michael, who succumbed to liver cancer last year.

Brooke Price

Brooke Price, also a newcomer, dedicates her run to her first patient as a Liver Transplant Coordinator. Despite undergoing a transplant, the patient faced complications, spurring Brooke to support others through their journeys.

Join the Cause!

To learn more about the American Liver Foundation and support their efforts during the 2025 Bank of America Chicago Marathon, visit liverlifechallenge.org/chicago. The foundation continues to be a beacon for the estimated 100 million Americans influenced by liver disease, focusing on effective advocacy, research funding, and public education about liver health. Together, they are forging a path to better liver health and increased awareness for all.

For more information, head over to www.liverfoundation.org or call 1-800-GO-LIVER (1-800-465-4837) for assistance and resources.