This past year has been one of recovery and discovery. As part of my work around grief, I will be running a half marathon with Team Lifeline in Miami this January to raise money for Chai Lifeline, in memory and for the merit of my two sons, Yaakov Chaim a"h and Avi (Avraham Meir) a"h.

Chai Lifeline is an international children’s health support network that provides critical year-round programs and services to nearly 6,000 families confronting illness, crisis, and loss. Our family knows that support firsthand.

Yaakov Chaim passed away at the age of one from an idiopathic brain disorder. During his year of life, we were helped by the Jewish Caring Network and Chai Lifeline. After his passing, we spent a respite Shabbos at Camp Simcha in the Catskills with other families who had lost children.

Two years ago, Avi died at 21 as a result of mental illness. He was a kind, sensitive soul, loved by many and a friend to many. Avi loved running and biking. He ran cross country in high school in Maine and kept running through college. Running this race is one way I can carry that part of him with me.

My goal is to raise $7,500. Every dollar helps Chai Lifeline continue vital services like case management, counseling, meal deliveries, financial aid, and its renowned medically supervised Camp Simcha summers. It is also my hope that it will help my sons’ souls rise to an ever higher place in their eternal rest.

Please give generously in support of the children and families facing illness, crisis, and loss. Donations are tax-deductible.

I greatly appreciate your support.

Always,

Louis