08/31/2025
Locals know that the thin line between Avalon and Stone Harbor represents a friendly, but very real rivalry. Allegiances are pledged early and rarely waver. But this past weekend, that line disappeared. Both communities were united over three men who loved this island: Dennis J. McNichol, III; Frederick W. Dunhour, III; and James Joseph Mack, III. All three taken too soon by brain cancer, and memorialized in an 8+ mile coastal walk this past Saturday. Starting at the 28th Street Boardwalk Beach Path and ending by touching the water of the Hereford Inlet, walkers were blessed with a gorgeous, late summer morning.
Walkers of all ages joined for the full route or portions of the trek, sharing stories, laughter, and the occasional tear as we walked together in tribute. The spirit of this tight knit community filled the route, buoying the spirits of those still coming to terms with their such recent losses. While everyone wished they could have met under different circumstances, new friendships were forged, old friends were reconnected, and a wonderful family tradition was expanded to include all. Beyond the emotional boost, these walkers also raised over $50,000 for this inaugural event!
The money raised will support Dragon Master Initiative’s support of Center for Data-Driven Discovery in Biomedicine (D3B) at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, a unique effort that combines data from many hospitals into a resource that can be freely shared with researchers worldwide. Both adult and pediatric patients are represented in this project, which is the largest brain tumor database of its kind, collecting many data types like genomic sequencing, clinical records, and bio samples, just to name a few. The underlying infrastructure helps even more patient populations, like children with structural birth defects.
This walk began as a family tradition. Now, it’s a movement of love, unity, and hope. 💙
Thank you for including us in this special event.
Adam K McNichol Bridget McNichol
