Walk of Life Walkathon to Support 5-Year-Old with Leukemia

The third annual Walk of Life Walkathon is dedicated to people suffering from blood-related illnesses, including 5-year-old Gabriel Ajalian, who has been battling Leukemia since 2012.

On Saturday, Sept. 27, the community will join Aljalian in Watertown to raise funds for the Armenian Bone Marrow Donor Registry.

The nonprofit helps Armenians who are suffering from life-threatening, blood-related illnesses by recruiting and matching donors for bone marrow stem cell transplants.

Armine Manukyan, principal of Erebuni Armenian School, said community involvement at charity events can help promote better citizenship.

“By participating in the ABMDR Walkathon, students develop an appreciation for each other, learn to lend a helping hand, and engage in active cooperation,” Manukyan said.

Multiple organizations in the local Armenian community will be in the Walkathon including Amaras Art Alliance, Armenian American Pharmacists’ Association, Armenian Assembly of America, Armenian Business Network, Armenian Youth Federation, Belmont High School Armenian Club, Boston College Armenian Club and more.

The 2.2-mile course starts at Armenian Cultural and Educational Center, 47 Nichols Ave., and ends on Main Street, where “Faire on the Square” will offer music, dancing and food.

The walk kicks off at 11 a.m. Registration is $20 and $10 for children under 12. Register here. Participating walkers can join a team, start a team or walk individually.

For more information, visit the walkathon website.

Photo: Gabriel Ajalian