50 Days 'Til Boston!

On April 16, 2012 I will be running the Boston Marathon as part of the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute’s Marathon Team. Since December I have been physically and mentally preparing myself for my 12th Boston Marathon.  I will be running for those who have lost their lives to cancer, have won their fights, and for those who continue their battles. My Uncle Frank is on my mind and I know his spirit will be with me on race day as it has been with me during my training.

This weekend I will complete my longest training run so far this year of 16 miles.  Running such a distance provides plenty of time for reflection. I think a lot about how grateful I am that I can physically take on such a challenge. I think about how far I have come personally and professionally since my first one in 2001. The marathon has given me the confidence to do more in life that I ever thought I could.

There is little more powerful in life than succeeding at something that at one time you thought you could not do. When life gets tough I still think if I can do that, I can do anything! Running Boston and more specifically, running for Dana-Farber, has taught me the importance of paying blessings forward, generosity of spirit and has brought out the strong woman in me. These last 12 years of running have provided me with a way to honor loved ones and to contribute to innovative cancer research.  I am very grateful for the opportunity.

We now have just 50 days until the Boston Marathon 2012! So if you see someone out running here in Melrose, chances are good that person is doing more than running. He or she may very well be training and could very well be training for a charity close to your heart. Give them a knowing smile and wish them well. Such exchanges are more appreciated than you know. A dollar they raise may be a dollar that helps you or someone you love.

Best wishes runners, See you out there.

Editor's note: If you're running in the Marathon to raise money for a cause, .