The Liver Life Walk Atlanta is the American Liver Foundation’s walk to raise awareness and money for liver disease, held at Brook Run Park in Dunwoody, GA. The 2025 walk was April 12, with a 1.5-mile loop that can be extended to a 5K. Dunwoody’s Beth Lehman, a liver transplant recipient, shares her story and the case for becoming an organ donor.
Beth Lehman’s battle with alcoholism and liver cancer nearly cost her life, but a transplant saved her. Now she’s on a mission to raise awareness through the Liver Life Walk Atlanta, held April 12, 2025, at Brook Run Park.
It’s a walk, not a run, so everyone can take part. Beth also explains the urgent need for organ donors. Many other countries automatically enroll donors, but in the U.S. it’s opt-in, and the number of donors is falling. Dunwoody, let’s show up and make a difference! Learn more at liverlifewalk.org/atlanta.
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Beth Lehman’s Story
In 2019, Beth collapsed at a Spruill Center event. She was diagnosed with liver disease from alcoholism, and later with liver cancer. By the time doctors found it, she had five tumors and had likely been living with cancer for more than two years.
In April 2021, she received a liver transplant from a 43-year-old man in North Carolina. She never got to meet him, but his gift is why she’s here, and why she does this work.
Why the Liver Life Walk Came to Brook Run
The Liver Life Walk used to be at Piedmont Park. It moved to Dunwoody’s Brook Run Park for easier parking, better accessibility and a community that shows up. The 1.5-mile loop works for all abilities, and you can extend it to a full 5K.
At its heart, it’s not a race. It’s a walk for survivors, families, caregivers and neighbors.
Become an Organ Donor
In the U.S., you have to opt in to be an organ donor, and donor numbers are dropping. Beth says one checkmark on your driver’s license can save up to eight lives. Sign up, and make sure your family knows your wishes.
Breaking the Stigma
Beth is open about her drinking because she wants others to feel safe asking for help. She also points out that liver disease isn’t only about alcohol. Diet, obesity, diabetes and genetics can all play a role.
If you or someone you love is struggling, talking to a doctor is a good first step. In the U.S., you can also call the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357, free and confidential, 24/7.
How to Get Involved in the Liver Life Walk
- Register and walk, or come cheer
- Join Beth’s team, Powered by Laughter, Fueled by Liver
- Sponsor as a local business. Beth says even $100 goes a long way
- Donate any amount
- Volunteer with setup, registration and hospitality
Sponsors have included Emory Transplant, Piedmont Transplant and United Digestive. Sign up at liverlifewalk.org/atlanta.
My Take
Beth’s story is raw and honest, and that’s what makes it powerful. Having the Liver Life Walk at Brook Run is a great fit for Dunwoody. Go walk, and check the organ donor box. Here’s more on Brook Run Park.
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Frequently Asked Questions About the Liver Life Walk
Where is the Liver Life Walk Atlanta?
At Brook Run Park in Dunwoody, GA. It moved there from Piedmont Park.
How long is the Liver Life Walk?
The main loop is about 1.5 miles, and it can be extended to a full 5K. It is a walk, not a race.
Who is Beth Lehman?
A Dunwoody resident and liver transplant recipient who advocates for liver health, organ donation and reducing the stigma around alcoholism.
How do I become an organ donor in Georgia?
You can register when you get or renew your driver’s license, or sign up online through the national donor registry. Tell your family your wishes.