On October 14, 2023, Massachusetts Citizens for Life (MCFL), the largest and longest-standing right-to-life organization in New England, hosted an extraordinary event in Newton to commemorate its 50th anniversary of advocating for the sanctity of life in the Commonwealth.
Over 500 attendees, including supporters, leaders, and influencers, gathered for this celebration. They were inspired by heartfelt testimonies and bold plans for the organization's future.
These included Krystle A., who underwent Abortion Pill Rescue therapy, reversing the lethal effect of the abortion pill she regretted consuming. Abortion Pill Rescue saved her baby's life, and Krystle welcomed a healthy son, Leo -- who joined his mother at the event. The touching story of Mark and Taylor C., a young couple who made the courageous decision to carry their daughter to term, despite facing pressure from doctors to terminate the pregnancy due to her hydrocephalus diagnosis, also resonated with the audience.
The Gala was expertly hosted by emcee Alexis Walkenstein, and featured powerful speeches by MCFL President Myrna Maloney Flynn and Chairman J. David Franks. Ph.D.
The highlight of the evening was keynote speaker Dr. Ben Carson, who attended with his wife, Candy. Dr. Carson, a neurosurgeon, shared his journey of success, remarkable achievements in both private and public life, and his exceptional dedication to saving lives, especially those of unborn children.
A deeply moving moment unfolded when Dr. Ben Carson awarded the inaugural Dr. Mark Rollo Award for Life to Annette Rollo, wife of the late Dr. Mark Rollo and a dedicated pro-life advocate. Dr. Mark Rollo, a beloved member of the MCFL Board, was passionately committed to the cause, particularly in his recent efforts against Physician-Assisted Suicide.
The Gala's theme, "Loving Life and Legacy for the Future," was reflected in the speeches and testimonies. President Myrna Maloney Flynn took the opportunity to showcase the organization's progress over the decades, with a particular emphasis on the recent year. During this time, MCFL launched the Pregnancy Care Alliance and expanded its digital presence through initiatives like the Legislative Action Center and, most recently, APRScience.org, focusing on the Abortion Pill Rescue therapy; the latter project will serve populations far beyond the people of Massachusetts. Additionally, the organization renewed its fundraising initiatives with the launch of the Prolife Legacy Society.
Founded in 1973, MCFL has been a staunch advocate for the recognition and protection of every human life, from conception until natural death, with a special focus on the well-being of Massachusetts women and their precious infants as the primary beneficiaries of their work.
MCFL is committed to a future where the Roe v. Wade decision will be remembered with disdain, similar to how history looks back at the Dred Scott decision that declared slaves only partially human under the law. This mission gained renewed vigor following the United States Supreme Court's landmark decision on June 24, 2022, which returned the issue of abortion to the states.
Please take pleasure in viewing a selection of event photos below, showcasing both the cocktail reception and the Gala.
