Hundreds Join First “Walk for Alopecia” in Boston, Raising Funds and Awareness

Close to 400 participants gathered at Borderland State Park in Easton on Saturday, October 21, 2023, for the inaugural “Walk for Alopecia.” This event aimed to raise both awareness and funds for alopecia, an autoimmune condition that leads to hair loss on the scalp, face, and other areas of the body.

The Nadeau family, particularly Lauren and Robert Nadeau, organized the walk in honor of their son, Matty, who began losing his hair at the tender age of three. Sharing his experience, Lauren Nadeau stated, “Matty started losing his hair when he was not even 3 years old. He used to have patchy alopecia.” Their personal connection to the condition fueled their commitment to the cause.

This event marked the first-ever alopecia walk in Boston, and it generated significant financial support. As Lauren Nadeau noted, “We started the day at $62,000 not including raffles, day-of donations, or t-shirt purchases.” The funds raised are intended to support research initiatives aimed at improving treatment options for individuals affected by alopecia.

Many participants took the opportunity to share personal stories about their experiences with alopecia, highlighting the emotional and social impacts of the disease. The event served not only as a means to raise funds but also as a platform for individuals to connect and support one another in their journeys.

The Nadeaus emphasized the importance of contributing to research, particularly as advancements have been made in treatments for individuals over the age of 12. Lauren added, “They have immunosuppressants for over the age of 12, and people are growing new hair if that’s their choice.”

Anyone interested in contributing to this cause can find more information on how to donate. The success of the “Walk for Alopecia” signifies a promising start for future events aimed at fostering community support and advancing research for those affected by this condition. The Nadeaus hope to continue raising awareness and funds in the years to come, building on the momentum established during this first event.