Couple Will Run Marathon to Support Cure for Neurological Disorder

[The following was submitted by Sonja Nathan for Neurofibromatosis, Inc., Northeast.]

Tia Kareklas and Andrew Joy (AJ) are quite a pair.

The Charlestown couple is running the venerable Boston Marathon on Monday, April 16 as Team NF members in honor of their four-year-old friend, Jonathan Malerba, who was diagnosed with neurofibromatosis at the tender age of 18 months.

AJ, a service technician for Verizon, has been running for about 20 years. Tia started about five years ago. Close friends of Jonathan’s parents, they decided to step up their efforts this year with the goal of completing their first Boston Marathon. Together they train two days a week on short runs and hills and they reserve Sunday for their long run.

The former Peabody resident works at i Natural in the and is raising money by asking coworkers for $5. In turn, they are allowed to wear jeans to work. The couple has placed canisters at their favorite restaurants on the North Shore and is planning to do several fundraising nights this month.

Neurofibromatosis (NF) is a neurological genetic disorder that can cause tumors to form on the nerves anywhere in or on the body at any time. NF affects three times as many people as muscular dystrophy and cystic fibrosis combined.

The mission of NF Inc. Northeast is to find a cure and treatment for neurofibromatosis by promoting scientific research, creating awareness, and providing hope and support to those who are affected by NF.

To support Tia and AJ in their Team NF fundraising efforts or to learn more about neurofibromatosis, visit the NF, Inc., Northeast website at www.nfincne.org.