A meaningful tradition for friends & family: IDF Walk for Primary Immunodeficiency

Without a doubt, one of the highlights of the year for the chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) community is the IDF Walk for Primary Immunodeficiency. The event is a special time to join together with friends and family, meet others with a primary immunodeficiency (PI) in our areas, raise funds for IDF, and have fun!

In fact, for many, it has become a beloved annual tradition. And like many traditions, it’s a wonderful way to invite our favorite people to our side, show our support for one another, and celebrate life. Indeed, it is a powerful feeling to walk shoulder-to-shoulder with those we love most, in addition to meeting new people with PI, knowing that with every step, we are making a real difference for our community.

Speaking from personal experience, as a New Yorker, I can tell you that there’s nothing better than walking over the Brooklyn Bridge on a brisk fall day, surrounded by friends and family and the PI community. Each year, our local walk is held in Lower Manhattan at Foley Square.  Upon arrival, we are greeted by upbeat music, a crowd of friendly faces, and fun zebra regalia. The children delight in the abundance of amusing giveaway items from exhibitors, and adults can learn more about the many resources and products available to the PI community from sponsors.

Most importantly, thanks to your participation in the walks, IDF has been able to raise more than $3 million since 2013, funding vital IDF programs and initiatives that are helping people lead better lives and changing the future for the PI community. Did you know that IDF is now awarding research grants because of the dollars raised by our walk teams and their supporters? Your participation will ensure that efforts like these continue.

You can create your own team or join an existing team, like #TeamCGD. If there isn’t a location near you, you can join the Nationwide Virtual Walk.