On Saturday, April 5th, Harriton High School hosted the 6^th Annual Adam Spector Walk to Win to benefit the Adam R. Spector Foundation for Hodgkin’s Lymphoma Research. The Foundation was established in honor of Adam Spector, a graduate of Harriton’s class of 1999, who passed away from Hodgkin’s lymphoma in April 2007 at the age of 25.

Volunteers of all ages convened in the Harriton student parking lot as early as 8 AM to help the Spector family prepare for the walk. 37 of the volunteers are members of one of Harriton’s community service clubs, the Harriton Service League (HSL). Each year HSL plays a role in making the event a success by encouraging students, teachers, and others in the community to participate in the walk.

“The Adam Spector Walk to Win is a great opportunity for Harriton students to get involved in community service, learn about Adam Spector’s legacy, and make a contribution towards Hodgkin’s lymphoma research,” explained HSL’s faculty advisor, Mr. Fritz.

It is important to note that Hodgkin’s research receives less funding than other types of cancer research initiatives. “We are one of the only foundations in the country that does funding exclusively for Hodgkin’s lymphoma,” explained Lynn Spector, Adam’s mother and co-founder of the Adam R. Spector Foundation. Thus, the foundation’s commitment to spreading awareness about and gaining support for this lesser-known cancer is critical to the future of the disease and those affected by it.

The foundation was established shortly after Adam passed away in 2007, and has since then gained support from both individuals and local businesses. Whole Foods contributed to the event by setting up a tent with bagels, protein bars, fruit, coffee, and juice for participants and volunteers. Additionally, 6ABC Action News reporter, Wendy Saltzman, reported live from the event; she interviewed the Spectors and helped to promote the cause.

Between 9 AM and 10 AM, those who still needed to register for the event had the opportunity to do so. Additionally, raffle tickets for Phillies tickets, restaurant gift certificates, and an Amazon kindle were available for purchase. An enthusiastic volunteer also led participants in a quick warm-up consisting of yoga and stretches, so everyone would be energized for the walk!

Right before the walk began, Lynn Spector, Adam’s mother, and Andy Spector, Adam’s brother, told volunteers and participants Adam’s story and emphasized the importance of funding Hodgkin’s research. They spoke of the dreams Adam had before and after he was diagnosed and encouraged listeners to keep their own dreams in clear view.

At approximately 10 AM, walkers—full of energy, inspiration, and determination—set off on the 2-mile route around a neighborhood adjacent to Harriton. Approximately 340 people attended the walk. Parents pushed children in strollers, and participants of all ages talked with friends and family while enjoying the fresh air and supporting an important cause.

Once the last walkers returned, Adam’s father, Lane Spector, drew raffle ticket numbers and joined Mrs. Spector in thanking everyone who helped make the event a success. Each year at the end of the walk, it is traditional for the family to send a blue balloon into the air, in Adam’s memory.

The 6^th annual Adam Spector Walk was a great success. The event garnered support for Hodgkin’s lymphoma research, raising over $42,000 dollars! If you are interested in supporting the organization and attending other fundraisers throughout the year, visit www.adamspector.org.