Last year's team included David and Joy Boothby, Cindy and Chris Perkins, Jami Pompeo, Tami Risk, Wayne and Nicholas Thomas, Dee Thomas and dogs Ruger and Herbie.
Last year's team included David and Joy Boothby, Cindy and Chris Perkins, Jami Pompeo, Tami Risk, Wayne and Nicholas Thomas, Dee Thomas and dogs Ruger and Herbie. Credit: COURTESY

The New Hampshire ALS Walk will celebrate its 25th anniversary this year, and for the 20th year, Maureen’s Team will be among the walkers.

The team was formed in 2005 in honor of Maureen McPhie Thomas, a Jaffrey native and longtime Peterborough resident who, in 2004, was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or ALS, which is also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease.

Maureen walked in the 2005 and 2006 events before her death in June 2007 at age 66.

Maureen McPhie Thomas
Maureen McPhie Thomas Credit: COURTESY

Unlike many teams that fade over time, Maureen’s Team has continued for 20 years. Family members, friends and their dogs have walked each year in her honor, raising more than $70,000 since 2005.

The 2005 team included Nicholas Thomas, Jay Riley with his children- TJ and Taylor in the carriage, Wayne Thomas, Bonnie Benoit, John Smith, Joy Boothby, Brie Oliveira, Jeanne Deyo, Greg Oliveria, Cindy Perkins with Danny Perkins, Alec MaCarther, Laura Oliveria, Kendra MaCarther, Pat McPhie, Jami Pompeo, John McPhie and dog Tommy Boy.
The 2005 team included Nicholas Thomas, Jay Riley with his children TJ and Taylor, Wayne Thomas, Bonnie Benoit, John Smith, Joy Boothby, Brie Oliveira, Jeanne Deyo, Greg Oliveria, Cindy Perkins with Danny Perkins, Alec MaCarther, Laura Oliveria, Kendra MaCarther, Pat McPhie, Jami Pompeo, John McPhie and dog Tommy Boy. Credit: COURTESY

After two decades as team captain, Maureen’s husband of 40 years, Wayne Thomas, is passing the role to the couple’s son Nicholas and his partner, Tami Risk. Together, they have raised more than $9,000 this year, aiming to surpass $10,000.

This year’s walk takes place Saturday, Oct. 4, at Rollins Park, 33 Bow Street in Concord.

While national campaigns such as the “Ice Bucket Challenge” raise research funds, regional ALS chapters provide support for patients and caregivers.

Supporters can follow the team’s progress and contribute at web.alsa.org/goto/MaureensTeam20Years.