She used to cheer on runners along Comm Ave. Now she’s running Boston.
"I run in memory of my dad’s sister, who passed away from childhood leukemia. I run in gratitude for the doctors at MGH who saved my dad’s life in 2014," Marisa Shocket wrote.
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: Marisa Shocket
Age: 30
City/State: Needham, Mass.
Growing up in Newton, Marathon Monday was always one of the most exciting days of the year. The energy and community around it made a lasting impression early on. In fifth grade, after joining the 50-mile club at summer camp, I was hooked on running. Each year, I would run to Comm Ave. early and cheer on the runners in awe, knowing that one day I wanted to be one of them.
In high school, my friends and I started volunteering at the MGH concession tent at Mile 20. What stayed with me most was watching the MGH runners in the Patient Partner Program stop mid-race to connect with their patient partners, often young kids. It was a heartwarming mix of joy and emotion, and a reminder of the powerful purpose behind each stride.
I knew then that if I ever had the chance, I’d be lucky to run for the MGH Pediatric Cancer Team – and I did just that in 2014 and 2021. Now, after eight years living in LA, I’m back in Boston and proud to be running for MGH again. While the foundation of why I run has stayed the same, the meaning behind it has only deepened.
I run in memory of Debra Shocket, my father’s sister, who passed away from childhood leukemia. I run in gratitude for the doctors at MGH who saved my dad’s life in 2014. I run for Maisie Shocket, my amazing niece with the biggest heart, whose strength and resilience after heart surgery inspire me every day. And I run for the many people and families touched by MGH’s care and programs, including my patient partner, Heloisa.
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