The American Liver Foundation has spots available on its 2013 Run for Research Boston Marathon team. It is challenging to qualify for the Boston Marathon, and charity spots go quickly. For anyone looking to participate in this inspiring Boston tradition, consider joining the Run for Research team.

This year will mark the 25th year participating as a charity partner of the Boston Marathon. The Run for Research Team is dedicated to raising funds and awareness for the American Liver Foundation.

It is the perfect way for a first time marathoner to train. Team members receive a comprehensive training program presented by professionals for runners of all levels, team meetings, fun social events, weekly group runs, two training runs on the marathon course, team clothing, luxury buses to the start line and complimentary massages and snacks post-race. The American Liver Foundation also provides fundraising tips, resources and supplies.

Even better than that is the exception Patient Match Program. It connects a liver disease patient, survivor or family with one of the American Liver Foundation's Run for Research runners, participating in the 2013 Boston Marathon. Through frequent communication between patient and runner, patients and family members are able to inspire the participants and spread awareness about the specific type of liver disease that impacts their lives.

Each year, the runners gain tremendous inspiration for the 26.2 miles that they're running for the cause, and build life-long friendships in the process.

It is so important to bring awareness to this disease. Unfortunately, 70 percent of those living with liver disease are completely UNAWARE of their illness. The American Liver Foundation reports that liver disease is estimated to affect 30 million people or 1 in 10 U.S residents. Of 11 regions in the country that offer liver transplants, New England is among the three worst in supply in demand (in the company of New York and California).

Each year in New England, there are roughly 1,100 individuals on the list for a liver transplant, but there are only 250-270 transplants each year, which means that less than one third of individuals waiting for a liver transplant locally receive one.

Join online at liverteam.org or contact Lauren Gainor at lgainor@liverfoundation.org or 617-527–5600. For more information on the American Liver Foundation, go to www.liverfoundation.org. For more information about the Run for Research, go to liverteam.org.