November 2025 kicked off with incredible energy and creativity from the Alpha-1 community coast to coast! Teams walked, paraded, and gathered in memory, honor, and support of those affected by Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency (Alpha-1).
This week featured the theme of Insight. Discovery begins with questions, and INSIGHT drives the path towards answers. Over the years, A1F driven research has deepened the understanding of Alpha-1, shedding light on critical pathways, and unlocking doors to new possibilities. A1F has expanded its knowledge base significantly, building a stronger foundation for the next steps in Alpha-1 research. With each step forward, A1F gains INSIGHT that propels the Alpha-1 community closer to lasting solutions.
A1F will be highlighting its INSIGHT throughout all outlets this week including email and social media platforms, showcasing INSIGHT throughout A1F programs.
A1F hosted a zoom kick-off meeting for the A1F Virtual Walks on Monday, November 3rd. All participants were invited to join to share their updates and progress. Nearly 40 people were in attendance including Alphas, team captains and A1F leadership. Everyone is energized and ready for their upcoming walks!
The Big Red Alphas went out to their state Capitol on Tuesday, November 5th to accept the Alpha-1 Awareness Month proclamation from Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen. Eight members of the A1F Support Group were able to share information on Alpha-1 and shared the Congressman Mike Flood of Nebraska’s first District signed on as a co-sponsor of HR:2343 The John W. Walsh Home Infusion Act. This newest addition brings the total number of co-sponsors up to forty!
Here are a few of the highlights from our inspiring A1F Virtual Walk 2025 teams:
Battle Born Alphas led by Team Captain Norma Leising (Sparks, NV)
It was a perfect day in Nevada as the Battle Born Alphas joined their local Sparks parade to raise Alpha-1 awareness! Norma and Team Battle Born fully embraced the cowboy spirit, decorating the parade float and handing out 500 Alpha-1 flyers attached to candy. With thousands in attendance, their 72-word announcement was read aloud at four stations on the parade route encouraging everyone to “cowboy up,” get tested for Alpha-1, and donate plasma for those in need. This effort was made in loving memory of Norma’s late husband, Steve Faucett, and truly showed the strength and dedication of the Alpha-1 community in the southwest.
Team Harrison led by Team Captain Hillary Stephens (Lexington, KY)
For nearly a decade, Team Harrison has made their Alpha-1 Virtual Walk a beloved family tradition each November. Friends, family, and neighbors totaling 50 participants joined again this year to walk their local Lexington park. The team has watched the Harrison boys grow up through this special event, turning each walk into a celebration of friendship, family, and hope. Together, they raised nearly $2,000 putting them on the A1F leaderboard.
Team Mitch led by Team Captains Lori & Dave Mitcheroney (Lakeville, MA)
Team Mitch took advantage of the beautiful fall weather to walk a scenic three miles from Long Beach in Plymouth, MA to Castle Island in South Boston, MA. Lori, Dave and friends enjoyed the ocean breeze, good company, and a day spent raising Alpha-1 awareness along the Massachusetts coast.
Roger’s Cure Crusaders led by Team Captain Roger Hanes (Nalcrest, FL)
First-time Alpha-1 Virtual Walk participant and Alpha, Roger Hanes, took on a dual mission this year raising awareness and inspiring generosity! Walking around his community in Nalcrest, FL, he challenged others to match his donation and beat his step count. For every person who logged more miles than him, Roger pledged to add to their totals showing what it truly means to go the extra mile for Alpha-1.
Grifols Northwest led by Team Captain Jennifer Leiker Idaho Alpha-1 Community Outreach
The Idaho Alpha-1 Community teamed up with Grifols Northwest for a fantastic Alpha-1 Virtual Walk on Saturday, November 1 at Kathryn Albertsons Park. The 35 walkers shared Alpha-1 flyers with others enjoying the park, spreading education and awareness beyond the team. Afterward, they gathered for their support group meeting for lunch at Outback Steakhouse, where Michelle Abrams led a fun fall trivia game. Congratulations to Steve Morton for scoring a perfect 10 and McKayla Angell for earning second place! It was a day full of community, laughter, and learning.
Alpha Dawgs led by Team Captain Lynn Soriano (New York)
Lynn and her husband Bob Soriano proudly represented the Alpha Dawgs, walking together to spread awareness and show their ongoing support for the Alpha-1 community. Their commitment and spirit continue to inspire others to get out, get moving, and raise their voices for Alpha-1!
From Nevada to Florida and everywhere in between, the A1F Virtual Walk teams continue to walk with purpose, passion, and pride. Together, we’re raising Alpha-1 awareness and hope, one step, one story, and one connection at a time.
There is still time to register for the A1F Virtual Walk. Click here to register today!
For more information, please contact Irene Calderon, Development Manager at icalderon@alpha1.org
