Boston Marathon

Why I’m Running: ‘The work isn’t finished’

Alex Gitungano is running the Boston Marathon with the Justice Health Initiative.

Justice Health Initiative

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. Looking for more race day content? Sign up for Boston.com’s pop-up Boston Marathon newsletter.

Name: Alex Gitungano
Age: 36
From: Chestnut Hill, Mass.

In 2024, I finally got a bib to run Boston, thanks to our partner Susan Hurley of Charity Teams and the support of the City of Boston. I trained hard, despite shin splints and a persistent ankle injury. My long runs often began at dawn, looping around the Chestnut Hill Reservoir or down Beacon Street. I listened to worship music and podcasts, prayed, and prepared my heart for the race.

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But I only had 10 weeks to train. I pushed too hard too fast—and on mile 18.7 of the race, I collapsed due to dehydration. I landed—by grace—right next to a medical tent. As they gave me IV fluids, the doctors told me I should stop. I wanted to cry—not for the pain, but for the thought of letting down the children I was running for.

Supported by a friend biking alongside me, I walked, jogged, and ran the rest of the course. I crossed the finish line overwhelmed by gratitude and determination. That day, we raised over $15,000—far beyond our goal.

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The work isn’t finished.

Currently, JHI (Justice Health Initiative) has a growing waitlist of children waiting for the kind of care JHI provides. The need is greater than ever. That’s why I’m running the Boston Marathon again this year.

I’m running for Leo and all JHI patients past and present. For every child who deserves the chance to walk, run, play, and thrive. I’m running because I believe that access to health care shouldn’t depend on where a child is born. I’m running to raise awareness and funds so we can reach more families and break down the barriers that stand between them and life-saving treatment.

This race is more than 26.2 miles—it’s a movement toward justice, dignity, and healing.

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

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