For the Peffer family of Marblehead, ALS is more than a diagnosis; it’s a legacy of heartbreak, courage, and hope.
More than 15 years ago, the Peffers lost their father to Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a progressive, incurable disease that attacks the nervous system. Doctors told the family there was about a 15% chance he could pass down the ALS gene to one of his children.
Tragically, that probability became reality. John Peffer, who now lives in Kittery, Maine, learned that he had inherited the same genetic mutation that took his father’s life. Today, Peffer is facing the disease with strength and determination, supported by friends, family, and a growing community of advocates determined to make a difference.
One of those advocates is Curt Havens, a longtime friend of Peffer’s and co-owner of The Beacon Restaurant & Bar in Marblehead. When Havens learned about Peffer’s diagnosis, he felt moved to act.
“When I heard about my friend John Peffer, I felt compelled to do something,” Havens said. “Our restaurant is perfectly set up for events and celebrations, and I knew this was something we could really rally the community around.”
Havens, along with partners Edgar Alleyne and Johnny Ray, is organizing a special fundraiser on Saturday, Nov. 15, at The Beacon. The evening will feature live music by the band True North, a silent auction, raffle prizes, a 50/50 drawing, and the restaurant’s full dinner menu — all to benefit ALS research and the Peffer family.
The event has gained traction quickly through word of mouth and local promotion. Flyers are up around town, social media posts are circulating, and local businesses have joined in to support the cause. The original goal was to raise $10,000, but enthusiasm has been so strong that organizers have already surpassed it — prompting a new target of $25,000.
“We’ve already exceeded our first goal, and I really think we’ll surpass this new one too,” Havens said. “The response from the community has been incredible.”
Funds raised will go directly to the ALS Therapy Development Institute (ALS TDI), a nonprofit biotech organization in Watertown that’s leading the world in ALS drug discovery.
“The ALS Therapy Development Institute is the world’s largest drug discovery lab focused solely on ending ALS,” said Courtney Mish, development manager at ALS TDI. “Our scientists work around the clock to develop and test treatments, moving the most promising ones into clinical trials. Events like The Beacon fundraiser keep our science moving forward.”
ALS TDI’s research is funded primarily by the ALS community itself — families like the Peffers and supporters who refuse to give up hope. Every dollar raised helps advance treatments for those living with the disease.
ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, remains underfunded and incurable. It attacks the motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord, gradually robbing individuals of their ability to move, speak, and breathe. Government funding for research is limited, meaning that private donations and grassroots fundraisers are critical to progress.
“Your tax-deductible donation can make a real impact,” Havens emphasized. “Just scan the QR code on our flyer — it takes less than a minute — and you can help us get one step closer to finding a cure.”
