Community Corner
Chatham Family Climbs Kilimanjaro To Fight Parkinson's
The Devlins ascended the mountain in honor of a family member lost to the disease.
CHATHAM, NJ - Tom and Matt Devlin lost their grandfather Parkinson's disease and along with their father Mark, the Chatham High School graduates turned their loss into activism as they ascended Mt. Kilimanjaro to fundraise and fight the disease.
In honor of George McCormick, the trio left for Tanzania on Aug. 7 and ten days later, reached the summit.
"My father-in-law passed away in January after a long struggle with Parkinson's Disease. In his memory, my two sons and I are climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro in Africa this August," Mark Devlin said. "Our goal is to raise money to help find a cure for Parkinson's disease and we have joined Team Fox for this adventure and worthwhile cause."
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Team Fox is the grassroots community fundraising program at The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research (MJFF). MJFF accelerates high-impact science through smart risk taking and problem solving with a commitment to urgency and efficiency.
"3Devs To The Top 4Pop "is looking to raise $30,000 in their first endeavor.
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"Please help me reach my goal, every dollar given can help end Parkinson’s disease," Matt Devlin said.
As for the choice of activity, Thomas Devlin said it honored his grandfather and his interests.
"Given his love of the outdoors and of adventure, to honor his memory and to find a cure for this disease," he said.
On the fundraising page some donors took the time to praise the trio for their efforts.
"Mark great job with the fund raising. You must be proud of your family and this vision to improve the health of patients affected by PD of which my dad was diagnosed," Stephen George posted to the page. "All the best and God bless your trip."
Gerard Azzari congratulated the Devlin clan on their "fantastic accomplishment."
"Well done boys," he said. "God Bless you guys and your spirit of giving."
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