When Monette Meo’s twin sister, Maureen, was diagnosed with advanced dry macular degeneration, Monette was heartbroken. Desperate to help, Monette set out to find a way to make a difference. Her search led her to AMDF, and that’s when it hit her—she could organize a fundraiser to help raise awareness and support research.
Monette envisioned an annual walkathon in San Francisco, a way to bring together family, friends, and the community in support of her sister and the cause. Monette rallied her family and friends to help organize the SEEnic Walkathon, securing sponsors, planning logistics, and spreading the word.
The day of the event was perfect—clear skies (unusual for San Francisco in September) and mild temperatures. Around 60 walkers, including children, made their way along the scenic route from the pier to the park and back, with a lunch stop, a visit to the American Academy of Ophthalmology Truhlsen-Marmor Museum of the Eye®, and ending with a celebratory dinner.
It was beautiful to witness this group of friends and family come together with such positivity, camaraderie, and an overwhelming sense of hope.
Thanks to their collective effort, the event raised over $25,000 for macular degeneration research! Monette and her family plan to make this an annual event, with hopes to open it up to the public in 2026. Their story shows just how powerful one person’s vision can be in igniting change and inspiring others.
The pictures and video from the event tell the story better than any words can. The joy, the camaraderie, the immense effort, and the inspiration…
Thank you to Monette, her sister Maureen, their families and friends, and everyone who showed up to help organize, walk, cheer, and inspire, including the walkathon sponsors (in addition to AMDF): Apellis, California Custom Contractors, Shutters and More, and AB Construction.
If you would like to organize a fundraiser on behalf of The American Macular Degeneration Foundation, please use our contact form to tell us about your idea!
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