2013 “Walk for Living” Presented by Chelsea Jewish Foundation and the Herb Chambers Companies Sunday, October 6 at 10am on Admirals Hill in Chelsea
Patrick O’Brien received an ALS diagnosis at just 30 years old. As an award-winning filmmaker who had created powerful films about people with disabilities, he never anticipated becoming part of that community himself. Nine years following his diagnosis, Patrick continues to write and produce thought-provoking films, supported by his determination, advanced technology, and the dedicated team at the Leonard Florence Center for Living (LFCL).
The fifth annual ALS & MS Walk for Living celebrates Patrick and other residents living with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease) and MS (multiple sclerosis) by generating funds for enhanced healthcare services at the Foundation’s facilities and residences.
On Oct. 6 at 10 a.m., the two-mile walk will take place at the Chelsea Jewish Foundation located at 201 Captains Row on Admirals Hill. This year’s event features two new additions: an Antique Car Show displaying distinctive classic vehicles and a “Friends & Family Day” celebration running alongside the walk.
The LFCL stands as the nation’s first urban Green House skilled nursing facility. Completely immobilized residents can operate lights, adjust televisions, unlock doors, and control window shades using only their eyes through cutting-edge technology. Two of the Center’s 10 homes showcase this innovative system.
According to Barry Berman, CEO of the Chelsea Jewish Foundation, the non-profit overseeing the LFCL, “Our ALS & MS residents display such incredible courage and powers of inspiration,” “They show all of us, every day, how you can live life to the fullest even after being diagnosed with a debilitating disease. These new models of care, featuring the latest in modern technology, accommodations and amenities, enable residents to live fulfilling and productive lives. It is our fervent hope to build more of these specialized care residences.”
For the third consecutive year, the Herb Chambers Companies serve as sponsors of the Walk for Living.
Herb Chambers remarked, “I am thrilled to be involved with such a motivating event,”
After visiting the Center several years ago, Chambers recognized the urgent need for fundraising efforts.
“The Center had a profound effect on me in terms of how modern technology can give these residents back their independence and improve their quality of life,” he explained.
Recently, Chambers presented the LFCL residents with a brand new, state-of-the-art factory-built MV-1 (Mobility Vehicle One). This limited edition, one-of-a-kind wheelchair accessible van has earned widespread recognition for its “revolutionizing mobility.”
Chambers added, “This van represents a way to help the Center’s residents expand their horizons,”
Donna Picariello, an MS resident, credits the personalized care provided at the Center as a key distinction between the LFCL and other skilled nursing facilities.
Picariello stated, “Care is the number one priority,” “The certified nursing assistant ratio is one to three; there is a nurse on every floor 24/7.”
The outstanding services, environment, and staff have proven invaluable in helping her preserve her emotional resilience and overall well-being, she noted.
As Picariello expressed it, “It is true there is no place like home, but the LFCL is really the next best thing.”
This year’s honorary chairperson is WCVB-TV’s Susan Wornick.
Wornick commented, “It has been such a wonderful experience getting to know the residents,” “I have met people who are, all at once, inspiring, courageous and fun. I am extremely proud to be involved with the Leonard Florence Center for Living.”
The 2013 Walk for Living will be held at 10 a.m. on Oct. 6 at the Leonard Florence Center, 201 Captains Row on Admirals Hill in Chelsea. Those interested in sponsoring a team or making a donation to support the Walk for Living should visit http://give.chelseajewish.org or contact Kristen Donnelly at 617-889-8740.