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Iowa Alphas make sure 250 people get the scoop on Alpha-1, enjoy ice cream and music, and raise funds
DES MOINES, IOWA—About 250 people ignored the heat and helped raise Alpha-1 awareness and funds at “Get the Scoop on Alpha-1” July 18.
Peg Iverson and a volunteer planning committee organized the second annual event, sponsored by the Iowa Alpha-1 Support Group.
Peg Iverson with Tom Corron, at the “Get the Scoop” event
The group asked visitors for a $5 donation at the door, in return for which they got to enjoy ice cream, live music, and the chance to mingle with a lively group of Alphas, family members and friends.
Iverson graduated from the Foundation’s Building Friends for a Cure training last spring. “My personal goal has always been not just to raise dollars for a cure, but to raise awareness,” she said. “And we definitely did that this year.”
During the fundraiser, Iverson met a couple with a newly diagnosed child. The couple had seen an article in the paper featuring the fundraiser and decided to join in.
“Their daughter had been diagnosed with Alpha-1 the day before. They were shocked and confused, and didn’t know who to turn to,” said Iverson. She was able to put them in touch with other parents of Alpha-1 children and give them contact information for some specialists. “It’s the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done.”
With the support of the planning committee, the support group, her husband and sons, Iverson has already begun plans for next year. “I couldn’t do it without them,” she said.
Overall, the fundraiser raised $5,500 for Alpha-1 research—$1,000 more than the goal. “The planning committee is the key to that success,” Iverson said.
