She’s running the Boston Marathon in tribute to her parents
"Every step I take on Marathon Monday is for them, and for every family impacted by this disease."
In our “Why I’m Running” series, Boston Marathon athletes share what’s inspiring them to make the 26.2-mile trek from Hopkinton to Boston.
Name: Talia Tartaro
Age: 25
From: Newton
I am honored to run the Boston Marathon for the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute alongside my sister, making this journey even more special. We are running in tribute to both of our parents, whose strength has shaped us in ways we could never put into words.
Nearly 19 years ago, our father was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer. Thanks to Dana-Farber’s exceptional care, he achieved remission – a gift we will never take for granted. This past August, our world shifted again when our mother was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer. Fear and uncertainty set in, but we knew she was in the best hands.
Running 26.2 miles is nothing compared to the fight my parents—and so many others – face every day. This race is my way of giving back, honoring my father’s journey, supporting my mother in hers, and helping fund life-saving cancer research. Every step I take on Marathon Monday is for them, and for every family impacted by this disease.
Editor’s note: This entry may have been lightly edited for clarity or grammar.
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