Sabedra Family- HDSA Greater Houston Area Affiliate The Huntington’s Disease Society of America (HDSA) is proud to shine a spotlight on the Sabedra family, whose unwavering commitment to raising awareness and funds for Huntington’s Disease (HD) has had an incredible impact over the past decade.
The Sabedra family’s journey with HD began in 2007 when Anita Sabedra, the beloved grandmother, “MoMo,” was diagnosed with the disease. Watching her gradual decline was a heartbreaking experience for the family, as MoMo, once a vibrant and lively woman, slowly lost her ability to perform everyday activities—such as driving, walking, eating, and even remembering the names of her loved ones.
In 2012, Ben was working toward his Eagle Scout rank and wanted to create something meaningful that would outlast him. After seeing the struggles his family endured in silence due to the lack of awareness and resources for HD, Ben knew he had to act. He decided to organize a walk in Houston, Texas, to raise awareness and offer a sense of community to families affected by Huntington’s disease. His vision was to create a supportive space for those impacted by HD to connect with others facing similar challenges. It wasn’t just about raising funds—it was about building a network of support, understanding, and solidarity.
The first walk took place on May 18, 2013, and was a resounding success. Despite the challenge of being an Eagle Scout project that prohibited fundraising through direct donations, the walk raised over $2,000 from local community sponsors. The walk quickly became a meaningful tradition for the Sabedra family, who has continued to organize it annually, even as they faced their own personal heartache. In 2014, MoMo tragically passed away after a long battle with Huntington’s disease, but her memory has lived on through the Sabedra family’s tireless dedication to the cause.
Over the years, the Sabedra family has raised an incredible $125,000, with an average of $10,000 raised annually. Their fundraising efforts not only support the mission of HDSA but also provide crucial funding for HD research and resources that families can rely on. Each year, the Sabedra family continues to walk in honor of MoMo and in solidarity with countless other families affected by Huntington’s disease.
The Anita Sabedra Team Walk has become a family affair and the support has grown as the family grows. Those currently working on the walk committee to support this event that hosts over 200 walkers in Houston are: Benjamin Sabedra II (walk creator), Kathryn Sabedra (Ben’s Wife) Benjamin Sabedra (Dad), Pat Sabedra (Mom), Alyssa Sabedra (Sister), Joe Sabedra (Grandpa), the Medina Family, and the Alonzo Family. The Sabedra family have created a legacy of hope, awareness, and support for others navigating the challenges of Huntington’s Disease. Their dedication is a shining example of what it means to give back to the community and to make a lasting difference.
Thank you, Sabedra family, for your extraordinary efforts and for continuing to honor MoMo’s memory in such a powerful and meaningful way. You are truly an inspiration.
