Mallika Viswanath is the niece of an Israeli ALS patient.

While spending a year in Israel and facing the difficulties the disease has brought upon her loved ones, she decided to run the 10k in the Jerusalem marathon on March 1st, and to raise money for IsrALS- the Israli ALS association, which helps her uncle and his family coping with the disease.
Please read her letter and help her achieve her goal!

My name is Mallika Viswanath.
I am currently on a gap year in Israel, spending time focusing on Jewish studies at Midreshet Nishmat in Jerusalem, before starting Princeton University this coming fall. When I decided to take a year off, my plan had been to enhance my studies in the Torah and Talmud, while traveling and exploring the land. I was also looking forward to visit my family that lives in Israel, perhaps spend a few weekends with them.
However, when my uncle Chaim, who lives in Israel, was diagnosed with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, nearly eight months ago, I knew that my gap year would take on a slightly different meaning Continue Reading…

For US tax-deductible contributions of at least $25 you may send a check (earmarked for IsrA.L.S) payable to P.E.F. Israel Endowment Funds, Inc., 317 Madison Avenue, Suite 607, New York, NY 10017