The ‘power of the Boston Public Library’ inspires this runner
The BPL became Caroline Driscoll's safe haven.
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. Looking for more race day content? Sign up for Boston.com’s pop-up Boston Marathon newsletter.
Name: Caroline Driscoll
Age: 20
City: Boston
I was never the most athletic person in the room. The only record I set in high school was being the only senior to not even make the JV track team. At this time in my life, exercise was my worst nightmare. It was the mastermind behind my anxiety attacks. It came to a point where I could not even walk up a flight of stairs without being scared that I was going to pass out or begin hyperventilating. It became a battle with myself. The constant panic episodes spiraled out of control. Hidden behind the Caroline Driscoll smile, it felt like I lost myself; like I lost the battle of life to my anxiety.
In addition to growing up with anxiety challenges, I also faced great challenges with reading. Not knowing how to read until 2nd grade, my dyslexia and ADHD were barriers to my learning. Words on the page spiraled in my brain and it seemed like nothing stuck. I felt stupid. I felt isolated. However, it was not until I discovered the power of the Boston Public Library, that I actually learned how to read and develop knowledge.
Although I faced great challenges with both exercise and my intellect during my life, reading and writing are now my therapy: they are my medicine. I am proud to say that I have not had an anxiety attack in over 2 years and have been able to achieve academic honors at Boston College in my studies. My first mile ever last November has turned into daily training runs and half marathons every single weekend. Reflecting back on my struggle to read and my fight with anxiety, I now realize that I am no longer isolated, but I am resilient. It is clear now that running and reading are not my barriers anymore, they are my fuel.
I am honored to be running the 129th Boston Marathon for the Boston Public Library with my older brother and greatest role model, Jefferson Driscoll. To me, family is life. I cannot wait to embark on this journey beside my brother and am forever grateful for his support and encouragement.
With hard work, dedication, and faith, anything is possible.
Editor’s note: This entry may have been lightly edited for clarity or grammar.
To comment, please create a screen name in your profile
To comment, please verify your email address
Conversation
This discussion has ended. Please join elsewhere on Boston.com