American Liver Foundation's Marathon Team Takes on the Boston Marathon to Combat Liver Disease

Running for a Cause

The 130th Boston Marathon, one of the most prestigious and historic races in the world, is set to return on April 20, 2026, and the American Liver Foundation (ALF) is gearing up to make a significant impact. With Team ALF, a dedicated group of runners, the foundation is poised to raise crucial funds and increase awareness for the nearly 100 million Americans affected by liver disease. This year marks a continuation of ALF’s legacy, as it has been the Boston Athletic Association's first official charity team since 1989, showcasing its unwavering commitment to enhancing liver health.

Personal Stories that Inspire Action

Team ALF members are not just runners; they are advocates fueled by personal journeys with liver disease. Each participant brings their unique story to the race, profoundly connected to the cause they support. For instance, ALF's 2026 National LIVEr Champion, Damian Delaney, runs to shed light on the importance of living liver donations. A priest and teacher, Damian is also a non-directed living donor. He emphasizes the joy of giving someone the gift of health, stating, "It’s an amazing feeling to know you're giving another person the priceless gift of health. My deepest desire now is to inspire others to consider donating part of their liver to help save lives."

Gabrielle Barnes, another team member, runs for her stepfather, Andrew, who underwent a lifesaving liver transplant after being diagnosed with stage 4 alcohol-associated liver disease in 2024. Elizabeth Guertin shares her journey of living with biliary atresia, a rare liver condition diagnosed just eight weeks after birth, currently awaiting transplant.

Fred and Kristin Kostecki, also part of the team, bring their experience to the forefront as they run in honor of their daughter, Abigail. Diagnosed with a rare liver disease at the age of four, Abigail’s fight for health motivated her parents to push for awareness and support. Additionally, Sophie Long has a remarkable story of her own; she stepped up to donate part of her liver to her fellow runner, Caitlin, highlighting the compassion that characterizes this team.

Other notable stories come from Amanda McMahon, who runs in memory of her cousin who lost their fight against biliary atresia, and Sarah, Emily, and Keith Tully, a family trio motivated by Keith’s personal battle with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) and his subsequent liver transplant. Leanna Shea honors her father, a two-time transplant recipient who passed from liver cancer, showcasing the far-reaching impact of these diseases within families.

Raising Funds for Education and Awareness

In support of its mission, Team ALF engages in dedicated fundraising efforts that directly benefit vital programs such as Think Liver Think Life, a public health campaign aimed at educating Americans about their liver health risks. Other programs include ALF's Living Donor Network, the first comprehensive database for non-directed living donors, and Bili the Brave, an initiative supporting children and families affected by biliary atresia. Moreover, Team ALF members receive essential training guidance and fundraising support while being part of a national movement advocating against liver disease.

"We are incredibly thankful for all our runners who act as dedicated advocates, using their marathon participation to raise awareness about liver disease," stated Lorraine Stiehl, ALF’s CEO. Their commitment exemplifies the endurance and strength parallel to that required in marathon running, echoing the foundation's mission of improving liver health across the nation.

Join Us and Make a Difference

Support Team ALF as they embark on this challenging yet worthwhile journey. Cheering for them along the marathon route or donating can significantly contribute to their fundraising goals, helping expand the reach of ALF’s programs. To be part of this impactful movement or to learn more about ALF or liver disease, visit www.liverfoundation.org or follow their efforts at https://www.givengain.com/campaign/alfboston2026. The Boston Marathon not only celebrates athletic prowess but also embodies the spirit of community and compassion in addressing critical health issues.

About the American Liver Foundation

The American Liver Foundation is a leading organization dedicated to raising awareness and providing support for those affected by liver disease. Through advocacy, educational initiatives, and community engagement, ALF aims to bring hope and improve the quality of life for the millions of Americans battling liver-related health issues. As it marks 50 years of striving toward this mission, ALF looks toward the future with renewed vigor.