Why I’m Running: ‘Dana-Farber made my dad feel so cared for’

"After just one trip to Boston, Dana-Farber made my dad feel so cared for, a true person more than a patient."

Molly Bacon

March 16, 2025

1 minute to read

Name: Molly Bacon
Age: 31
From: Brookline, Mass.

Cancer affects us all. I am running the Boston marathon to raise money for Dana-Farber in honor of dad, the kiddos, other family members, friends, my patients and their families, and all others affected by this horrible disease.

Dana-Farber is a place that is so meaningful in both my personal and professional life. April 24, 2025 marks 10 years since my dad, Matt, passed away from aggressive prostate cancer. After just one trip to Boston, Dana-Farber made my dad feel so cared for, a true person more than a patient. It’s the culture, the way of life, the determination to make sure every person gets a chance to live their life in a way that honors their individualized goals. Dana-Farber has always held a special place in my heart, and I am so grateful to be working at DFCI in the outpatient palliative care clinic the past 5 years.

I witness first-hand the impact the remarkable research, clinical trials, and
overall advancements in cancer care have each year. This is my first ever marathon, and I am so honored to have the opportunity to run for all
those who have fought and are continuing to fight this horrible disease. I have never been a runner and training has been hard, but what is harder is seeing people suffer. Running the Boston Marathon the week of the 10-year anniversary of my dad’s passing is a moment that means the world to me. I am so lucky and honored to be able to participate in such a meaningful event and raise money for a place that makes such a difference in so many lives. I am so grateful for the opportunity to represent a cause with such sincere purpose.

Together, we’re headed toward the ultimate finish line: a world without cancer.