For the last two years, COVID restrictions would not allow in-person participation in the Scott A. Mackler Memorial 5K Run/Walk (Mackler 5K) that is now scheduled on Sunday, November 13, 2022, 12:30pm, at Temple Beth El, 301 Possum Park Road, Newark, Delaware. All proceeds and donations of the Mackler 5K are given to The ALS Association Greater Philadelphia Chapter (ALS Philadelphia). ALS Philadelphia administers these contributions in support of the Scott A. Mackler, MD, Ph.D., Assistive Technology Program.
ALS (Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) is better known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease. It is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that leads to paralysis due to the death of motor neurons in the spinal cord and brain. There is presently no cure.
Scott Mackler, Beta Pi ’77, a medical doctor and brilliant scientist, contracted ALS while doing research at the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Medicine to find a cure for cocaine addiction. He valiantly fought the effects of ALS for many years. During this time, he was able to continue his employment due to the existence of advanced technology that provided the tools and devices enabling him to continue his research. Prior to his unfortunate demise, Scott was featured on the 60 Minutes television program highlighting the technical advances that had been made to ease the pain, discomfort, and inability to communicate for people living with ALS, a highly debilitating disease.
Among the assistive technology devices presently available through ALS Philadelphia are remote door chimes to call for help, control units that provide hands-free access to electrical devices, electronic devices that enable ALS sufferers to read books, communication devices that convey messages, and computers with voice output and the ability to access the internet.
The Mackler 5K was created by Scott Mackler, Scott’s brother, Harvey Mackler, Beta Pi ’72, and the entire Mackler family. Harvey has personally planned, organized, and managed every running of this “Race against ALS” that is now in its’ 22nd year. Over these years, nearly $3,000,000 has been raised by the Mackler 5K. Harvey ensures that every dollar raised is given to ALS Philadelphia to provide the assistive devices needed by sufferers of ALS.
If you wish to honor the legacy of Scott A. Mackler and provide help that allows those stricken with ALS to endure the debilitating effects of this disease, please donate to this extremely worthy cause. You can reach the Pi Kappa Alpha team donations page at this website:
https://secure2.convio.net/alsa/site/TR/Dollar/Philadelphia?team_id=406311&pg=team&fr_id=15294
