Monday, July 21st, 2025- Betsy Scher and The Highland Park, Illinois community came together in the sweetest way—at Ice Cream for Alpha-1, an ice cream fundraiser to support the Alpha-1 Foundation. Betsy has Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency (Alpha-1) and hosted this event to raise awareness and funds for research and related programs. Joined by her son, Winston, her nieces, Lilah and Tori and her dog Oliver, Betsy hosted more than 40 guests to a local shop, Terry’s Toffee for an afternoon filled with gelato, affogatos, and heartfelt connection. Together, they raised $2,110, surpassing their original $500 goal, and illustrating the incredible impact one family can make.
The shop was filled with creamy gelato in mouthwatering flavors, magical affogatos (espresso + gelato!), and a sprinkle of purple everywhere, the color of Alpha-1 awareness. Guests were encouraged to wear purple, make donations, and most importantly, come together in support of A1F mission, to find a cure for Alpha-1.
The event was inspired by Betsy’s personal journey with Alpha-1 and her passion for creating meaningful connections. A proud member of the new Fred C. Walsh Speakers Bureau, Betsy shares her Alpha-1 story to raise awareness and inspire others to get involved.
“I wanted to create something joyful and welcoming, something that could bring people together and raise awareness in a way that felt hopeful,” Betsy shared.
Betsy is also the founder of Glow & Gather, a lifestyle and wellness space that grew out of her own health journey. After years behind the salon chair helping others feel beautiful on the outside, her Alpha-1 diagnosis inspired her to focus on inner wellness, mindful routines, and creating spaces where people can connect and heal together. Glow & Gather blends beauty, wellness, and community—a reflection of the spirit behind her Ice Cream for Alpha-1 event.
A special thanks to Terry’s Toffee, for generously hosting the event. The day was a true celebration of community, hope, and giving back.
Ice Cream for a Cure is a fun, family friendly way to support the A1F mission and make a difference. Host or join an Ice Cream for Alpha-1 fundraiser by bringing your community together to enjoy delicious treats while raising awareness and funds for Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency (Alpha-1). Since 2005, the BFC program has become a cornerstone of Alpha-1 awareness and fundraising, touching lives across the country. These community fundraisers have not only raised funds for Alpha-1 research and programs but also educated and empowered participants with valuable Alpha-1 knowledge. The BFC events are held virtually and in-person, making it easy to fundraise for Alpha-1 and share your story. The program’s influence extends beyond the patient community. By involving physicians, researchers, and industry partners, the BFC program offers a unique opportunity for stakeholders to gain firsthand insight into life with Alpha-1.
