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04.11.03 Runners and walkers provide inspiration |
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This year, the team is dedicating its efforts to Katie Lynch, a former Children’s patient and employee who conquered her own marathon achievement two years ago by walking the first 26.2 feet of the race. Katie died in October at the age of 27, but the memory of her energy and positive attitude inspires the team. The runners also find inspiration in over 100 patients and families who have volunteered their support as “Patient Partners.” In addition to encouraging runners throughout their training, many of these patients and families have played a key role in runners’ fundraising. But fundraising is only part of the contribution that the athletes make. Just as the patients inspire the runners, the Kids at Heart team generates inspiration and enthusiasm for the mission of Children’s Hospital Boston—in the community and among patients, families, staff and employees. Here are a few of their stories: Kate Marshall is running for her son C.J. When her son survived a rare, often-fatal lung disease, Kate Marshall vowed to help families in similar situations. When he was just hours old, her son C.J. was diagnosed with primary pulmonary hypertension (PPH) a disease that would require him to get a lung transplant. Extensive research by Children’s specialists indicated
that nitric oxide—a drug originally intended to prolong a patient’s
life while awaiting a lung transplant—could potentially save C.J’s
life. C.J. was treated with the drug, and showed such significant improvement
that he no longer needs lung transplant. Teresa Prego is running for two of
her daughters If Gabi’s courage inspired her mom, it also served as
a lesson to her classmates in fourth grade: the students designed a t-shirt
and are selling it to raise funds for the Kids at Heart team. Matthew O’Malley was a Children’s
patient Children’s cardiovascular surgeons performed a successful bypass operation, and a decade later Matt ran his first marathon. “It’s a clear testament to the abilities of the doctors and staff of Children’s that a heart patient was able to endure a 26.2 mile race says Matt. I have continued with my running and am pleased to have the opportunity to join this team.” Related links: Boston Marathon Kids at Heart Marathon
Team Miles for Miracles
Walk for Children's Hospital Boston
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