The 2025 Look. Walk brought together families, friends, and supporters from near and far – all walking for one powerful cause.

What an extraordinary day on the Boston Common!

Dear friends,

I am still in awe. October 4th, the Boston Common came alive in teal and orange as more than 800 walkers in person — joined by over 150 virtual participants from 20 states — gathered for the Second Annual Look. Walk – Making Strides for PANS & PANDAS.

Together, we raised over $240,000 for the Look. Foundation’s Healing Grant Program, directly fueling financial assistance, education, and support for families navigating PANS and PANDAS. What began as a vision has grown into a movement — one rooted in hope, healing, and community.

The park buzzed with life and laughter — from the excitement at the children’s activity tent, to the reflections at the Wall of Hope, to the heartfelt “Why I Am Walking” video testimonies that reminded us all why this day matters. Families explored the kids’ scavenger hunt, visited the Resource Tent featuring our friends from ASPIRE and The Alex Manfull Fund, and stopped by the Look. “merch” tent to pick up some of this year’s “cool” new gear.

Adding to the excitement were some very special guests — Lucky the Leprechaun from the Boston Celtics, Wally and Tessie from the Red Sox, Pat the Patriot, and the New England Patriots Cheerleaders — who brought an incredible spirit of joy, teamwork, and hometown pride to the day.

And when it came time to walk, hundreds of Look. Walk shirts set off across the Common, each step a symbol of strength, hope, and solidarity. As they crossed the finish, every participant received a commemorative Look. Walk medal — a token of pride and progress — while the Boston Police Department joined in the celebration, handing out ice creams and smiles that made the morning even sweeter. Their beloved comfort dog, Copper, was also there, greeting children and families along the way and spreading the kind of warmth and comfort that perfectly captured the spirit of the day.

Our speaking program reminded us why we walk:

Advocacy and Awareness — Massachusetts leaders Senator Patrick O’Connor and Representative Joan Meschino joined Sheilah Gauch, Board of Director and co-leader of the Massachusetts Coalition for PANS/PANDAS Legislation, to share powerful updates on two historic bills — a statewide screening bill and a prevalence study — paving the way for change.

Excellence in Care — They then had the privilege of honoring Peggy Chapman, whose decades of dedication and compassion have transformed the landscape of psychiatric care and advocacy for children and families affected by PANS/PANDAS.

Science and Hope — Dr. Jennifer Frankovich of Stanford Children’s Hospital inspired us all with her groundbreaking work leading the world’s first multidisciplinary PANS/PANDAS clinic and her ongoing research through the Immune Behavioral Health Program, showing us what is possible when science meets compassion.

Voices of Courage — Izzy Witkos took the stage to share her personal journey, embodying the very heart of resilience and reminding us that healing is possible.

A Moment of Unity — We closed with a stirring performance of the National Anthem by Kayla Caulfield, whose voice carried across the Common like a promise of strength and hope.

At the heart of it all were the brave families, friends and children — the reason we walk and the inspiration behind every step forward. Their courage & perseverance are at the foundation of this movement and remind us that together, we are not just raising funds — we are building an incredible community of healing, understanding and hope.

Advocates & Practitioners locking arms! Front Row: Jennifer Vitelli, Executive Director; Dr. Nancy O’Hara, Dr. Jennifer Frankovich, Dr. Andrew Baumel, Dr. Mark Pasternack, Dr. Julia Zhang. Back Row: Michelle Pinto (BOD), David Hyman (BOD), Sheilah Gauch (BOD), Melissa Glynn-Hyman BOD), Gabriella True (ASPIRE), Susan & Towny Manful (The Alex Manfull Fund)l, Lisa Grisolia (BOD), Ali McLean (BOD) and Cathy Witkos (President)

And throughout it all, banners flew high across the city, billboards lit up across the Commonwealth and our collective voice grew stronger. As I said that morning — PANS/PANDAS is not rare; it’s rarely recognized. And together, we are changing that.

To every walker, donor, sponsor, team captain, practitioner, policymaker and family — thank you. You are part of a growing movement that refuses to let any child or young adult walk this path alone.

SHOUTOUT TO A FEW OF OUR VIRTUAL TEAMS!

From California, South Carolina, North Carolina, Vermont, Florida, Oregon, and Massachusetts.