The Alpha-1 Foundation’s (A1F) 30th anniversary was nothing short of inspirational at the American Lung Association’s (ALA) Escape to The Cape. More than 220 riders and volunteers came together in Cape Cod, Massachusetts to join Riding for a Reason to help raise awareness for Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency (Alpha-1.) The event raised over $180,000 dollars from the community. Team Alpha-1 carried on its traditions all weekend long including wearing the beautiful new 30th Anniversary riding jerseys and T-shirts, proudly displaying the “Alpha Angel” patch of the late Fred C. Walsh, cheering riders at the rest stops, and celebrating together at the highly anticipated lobster dinner.
“I can’t begin to tell you how inspirational it is to ride side by side with other Alphas as we all Ride for a Reason, with the common goal of a CURE!” shared Alpha participant Lori Mitcheroney. “It was amazing to connect and reconnect with other Alphas and learn from their journeys, as well.”
A Partnership with Purpose
A1F has proudly partnered with the American Lung Association (ALA) for Escape to the Cape for nearly three decades and this enduring collaboration has made an immeasurable impact. Together, A1F has raised critical funds for Alpha-1 research but also created a community of hope and resilience that continues to grow stronger each year. This 3-day event also allows A1F to partner with industry partners, the dedicated research community and the Alpha-1 patient community. Thank you to our Building Friends for a Cure Sponsors: AlphaNet, CSL, Grifols and Takeda. Presenting Sponsors: Beam Therapeutics and Korro Bio. Community Sponsors: Gondola Bio and AirNA.
Distinguished Guests & Honorees
A1F was honored that Dr. Darrell Kotton, founding director of the Center for Regenerative Medicine of Boston University and Boston Medical Center and Dr. Andrew Wilson, A1F Scientific Director from Boston University’s CReM Lab, joined the Ride with the largest team at the Cape. Their leadership in Alpha-1 research showcases their commitment toward better treatments and ultimately a cure for Alpha-1.
A1F thanks Jon Hagstrom, Chair of the A1F Board of Directors and team captain for “Alpha Dogs”. During the event, Jon, Dr. Kotton and Dr. Wilson accepted the ALA Silver Spoke Award on behalf of the A1F. This outstanding award is given to the organization with the largest team at the event.
In a moving ceremony, an award was also presented by ALA to the Walsh family, honoring Fred Walsh’s enduring legacy of advocacy, compassion, and community. Fred Walsh was a member of the A1F Board of Directors, and AlphaNet Coordinator and a dedicated advocate to the Alpha-1 community. “In a world marked by hopelessness and challenges, be a Freddy,” said Richard Lovrich, Alpha and friend. This powerful message became the theme of the weekend. Team Alpha-1 paid tribute to Fred by wearing custom “Fred’s Feast” lobster bibs during the annual Saturday night lobster dinner at Camp Burgess.
Looking Ahead
Reflecting on the many years of participation at Escape to the Cape, A1F is proud to celebrate the countless stories of courage, connection, and commitment that have defined this event. A1F is grateful to ALA for their decades of partnership, the outstanding riders and committed volunteers for their unwavering spirit, and to the Alphas who are the inspiration to continue this journey until a cure is found.
Thank you to the 2025 A1F Escape to the Cape Committee: Diane & Michael Allen, Kari & David Black, Kathi & Dan Coffin, Lyn-ann Coombes, Joyce Croci, Toya De Leon, Shirley Dennis, Joan & Oliver Garry, Dan Grimm, Terese & Pat Henner, Rebecca & Steven Lebryk, Richard Lovrich, Patsy & Joe Masterson, Lori & David Mitcheroney, Karin & Michael Pittsley, Siobhan & Bill Spears and Ellen & James Wright.
Learn more about Team Alpha-1 Fundraising: The fundraising page will stay open through October 31.
Check out the incredible funds the teams have raised so far! Their pages will remain open until the end of October if you’d like to show your support.
Save the Date for the 2026 Escape to the Cape: September 25-27th, 2026
Photo credit: Thank you, Richard Lovrich for capturing the weekend’s memorable moments.
Thank you to A1F Building Friends for a Cure Sponsors
AlphaNet, CSL, Grifols, Takeda
Presenting Sponsors
Beam Therapeutics, Korro Bio
Community Sponsors
Gondola Bio., AirNA
