Fundraiser for ALS research Dec. 3 in Nahant

NAHANT – George and Cynthia Mazareas helped form the now annual “Gathering of Friends” event for the non-profit organization Prize4Life to benefit ALS research four years ago.It has since become a community tradition many look forward to.?Everyone there is there to support the cause and are such supporters of George,” Prize4Life Manager of Operations Sarah Groothuis said. “It really is a gathering of friends.”In 2003, Lynn native George Mazareas, a former Lynn School Committee member, was diagnosed with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig?s Disease and made it his mission to raise awareness about the debilitating and ultimately fatal disease.The 4th Annual Gathering of Friends is planned for Saturday, Dec. 3, at the Nahant Country Club, beginning at 7 p.m. Tickets are $25.The fundraiser will feature casino games, a live auction and a raffle that will all go to benefit Prize4Life.?It is a great event,” Groothuis said. “It is a family friendly event which makes it that much better.”Groothuis believes what makes the event so special is Mazareas himself.?He is such a great pillar of the community,” she said. “He has shown a lot of strength over the years.”Mazareas? wife, Cynthia, told the Item last year that her husband is not one to feel sorry for himself.?George faced a choice: He could wallow in self-pity or do something for future generations,” Cynthia Mazareas said prior to last year?s event.It can also be moving seeing everyone come together to support Mazareas and the important cause.?It is really inspiring to see everyone there. It is quite touching,” Groothuis said. “The community involvement is what makes this event stand out that much more.”Prize4Life funds ALS research in various ways.?We have forums that educate people about what is happening now and what trials are out there. This helps fund that along with many other things,” Groothuis said. “This event really helps out the community.”The non-profit organization?s mission is to accelerating the discovery of treatments and ultimate cure for ALS by using powerful incentives to attract new people and drive innovation.?We try to bridge the gap between academia, community and industry for people,” Groothuis said.As for Mazareas, he has his eye on the future.Tickets will be available for purchase at the door. You may also purchase tickets online or make a donation by going to www.prize4life.org/page/mazevent