The Celtic Connection will host fundraiser to benefit the Alpha-1 Foundation on March 4 at the Boston Marriot-Newton Hotel on March 4.

Alpha-1 is a genetic condition that affects the lungs and may cause liver damage in infants, children and adults. It has been found to be especially prevalent in those of Irish descent and is exacerbated by lifestyle choices such as smoking. It is believed that many Irish and Irish-Americans (among other European nationalities) are likely carriers of the disease and therefore are at risk of passing it on to future generations.

Oftentimes, those suffering from Alpha-1 are misdiagnosed with emphysema or COPD, and have usually exacerbated their symptoms through tobacco use. Smoking, doctors warn, is the biggest risk factor for those who have developed the genetic disease.

According to the Alpha-1 Foundation, “An estimated 19 million people in the United States have one normal and one defective alpha-1 gene. People with one normal gene and one defective gene called “carriers”. Carriers may pass the defective gene on to their children.”

Testing is available for carriers of Alpha-1, and the people from the Celtic Connection are eager to spread the word about awareness, treatment, detection and prevention.

On March 4, they invite you to join 400 guests at a dinner held at the Boston Marriott-Newton hotel at 7pm. Tickets are $50 per person (VIP cocktail reception and dinner will be $150) and can be purchased at alpha1.org or by emailing bobhealy125@msn.com. The evening will feature a Traditional Irish dinner, a silent auction and 50/50 raffle, along with entertainment provided by Hogan’s Goat. They will also recognize recipients of the 2017 Shillelagh Awards.

For more information on Alpha-1, visit www.Alpha1.org.