She’s running to support a cause that helps her aunt ‘maintain independence’

"My Aunt Irene Hill is legally blind, and over the past fewyears, I’ve watched her navigate the challenges of progressive vision loss," Elizabeth Pollard wrote.

Elizabeth Pollard

March 17, 2025

1 minute to read

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: Elizabeth Pollard
Age: 54
From: Charlottesville, Virgina

On April 21, 2025, I will fulfill a long-held dream by running the 129th Boston Marathon. But for me, this race is about more than just crossing the finish line—it’s about making a difference.

I am running to raise funds for the Massachusetts Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (MABVI), an organization that provides essential services, training, and advocacy for individuals with vision loss. This cause is deeply personal to me. My Aunt Irene Hill is legally blind, and over the past few
years, I’ve watched her navigate the challenges of progressive vision loss. Despite these obstacles, she has faced them with courage and resilience, inspiring me every day. MABVI has been such an incredible resource for my aunt. From providing support groups and tech training to helping her access her favorite audiobooks, their work has been invaluable in helping her maintain independence.

For more than a century, MABVI has been dedicated to helping individuals with blindness and low vision across Massachusetts, providing them with the tools and support they need to live independent, fulfilling lives. By running the Boston Marathon, I hope to raise awareness and critical funds to help ensure that MABVI can continue this life-changing work.

I have set an ambitious fundraising goal and am calling on my friends, family, and community to support me. Donations to my GivenGain campaign will go directly toward programs that empower individuals with vision loss and help them maintain their independence. This race is about more than just me, I remind myself every day. It’s about supporting those who rely on MABVI’s incredible services.