WATERTOWN — Supporters from throughout New England gathered in Watertown on September 19 to participate in the Armenian Bone Marrow Donor Registry’s (ABMDR) 15th Annual Walk of Life. The pan-Armenian event drew numerous students from area schools and colleges, and received support from local organizations, businesses and community leaders.
Since its inception, the New England Walk of Life has received support and sponsorship from numerous businesses and organizations, including PROMETRIKA, LLC, of Cambridge; the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute; Armenian Women’s Welfare Association; Watertown Savings Bank; Armenian American Pharmacists’ Association; ThermOil, Inc.; Suphi Furs; anoush’ella; and the Varjabedian, Yeramian and Bedrosian families. The walkathon has also received support from the St. James Armenian Apostolic Church’s Charles Mosesian Cultural and Youth Center, Armenia Tree Project, Amaras Art Alliance, Boston Red Sox, Northeastern University Athletics, Waverly Oaks Athletic Club, and Armenian Museum of America.
During the walkathon’s opening ceremony at the Charles Mosesian Center, Ojeni Kavlakian of the Walkathon Organizing Committee welcomed the participants.
“Today, we are gathered as one big team,” Kavlakian said. “Some of us walk, some cheer, some organize, and some quietly register as potential stem-cell donors. Different roles, one goal. Many of you have supported us since the very beginning, and we are deeply grateful. Thank you to everyone who helped spread the word among friends, families, and colleagues. Your support makes this event possible.”
Kavlakian also expressed the organizing committee’s gratitude to St. James Armenian Apostolic Church’s Rev. Arakel Aljalian, and Yn. Natasha for hosting the commencement of this year’s walkathon.
