Boston Marathon

Why I’m Running: ‘My son is my hero’

Colleen Schaible is running for the Boston Children's Miles for Miracles team in honor of her son, Chase.

By Claudie Bellanger

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: Colleen Schaible
Age: 47
From: Amesbury, Mass. 

I am running the 2025 Boston Marathon with the Boston Children’s Hospital Miles for Miracles team in honor of my Heart Warrior, Chase. My son is my hero. Since he was one month old, he has been a cardiac patient at BCH, receiving the gift of life time and again. We cannot imagine where we would be without the incredible care from this hospital.

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Chase has undergone eight procedures, the most recent of which had him in the ICU for 16 days in September 2024. Though it was an incredibly scary time for our family, the team at BCH was with us every step of the way. From the cafeteria staff to the social workers, nurses, and doctors, we were never without kind words and a smiling face to guide us through the toughest moments.

This marathon is my small way of giving back. Training and fundraising for BCH over the course of six months feels like a small token of gratitude for all they’ve done for Chase and for other children whose lives they touch. By raising funds, I hope to help BCH continue providing life-saving care for children from around the world, giving them the chance to lead fuller lives.

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Having run three marathons before, I know this one will be the most special—it’s not just a race; it’s a tribute to the medical staff, the hospital, and the community that has supported our family. Moving forward, I hope to continue being a part of this incredible team, both by volunteering and by participating in the years to come.

Editor’s note: This entry may have been lightly edited for clarity or grammar.

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