Running for Dad: Honoring a Legacy & Fighting Liver Disease

My name is Blake Stelzriede, and this November, I will be running the Indianapolis Monumental Marathon. While the miles ahead will be a test of endurance, every step I take will be fueled by a much deeper purpose: to honor the memory of my incredible dad, who we lost to Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC).

PSC is a rare and debilitating chronic liver disease that progressively damages the bile ducts, eventually leading to liver failure. My dad fought bravely against this illness, and his strength and resilience throughout his journey continue to inspire me every single day.

Losing him left a profound void in my families lives, but it also ignited a fire within me to do something meaningful to prevent other families from experiencing the same heartbreak. That's why I've chosen to dedicate my marathon run to my Dad and the American Liver Foundation (ALF).

The ALF is a vital organization committed to promoting education, advocacy, support services, and research for the prevention, treatment, and cure of liver disease. They provide crucial resources to patients and families affected by conditions like PSC, and they are at the forefront of funding groundbreaking research that could one day lead to a cure.

By supporting the American Liver Foundation, we can help:

* Fund critical research: Bringing us closer to better treatments and ultimately a cure for PSC and other liver diseases.

* Provide patient support: Offering educational programs, resources, and a supportive community for those living with liver disease.

* Raise awareness: Educating the public about liver health and the impact of liver diseases.

Training for a marathon is a significant undertaking, but it pales in comparison to the challenges my dad faced. With each mile, I'll carry his memory and the hope that my efforts can make a difference in the lives of others.

I am asking for your support, no matter how small, to help me reach my fundraising goal for the American Liver Foundation. Your donation is not just a contribution; it's an investment in a healthier future and a tribute to those we've lost to liver disease.

Please consider donating and sharing my story with your friends, family, and networks. Together, we can make a tangible impact and work towards a world free from liver disease. All proceeds will be donated to the American Liver Foundation.

Thank you for your generosity and for being a part of this meaningful journey.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Blake Stelzriede