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She’s running her 11th Boston Marathon for her son and others affected by addiction
"This year is the first year I am emotionally ready to run in memory of my son and others affected by this horrible disease."
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: Jill Borthwick
Age: 72
From: Freemont, New Hampshire
This will be my 11th Boston Marathon, but the most heartfelt.
This year, I am running for the Herren Project in memory of my son, John O’Brien, and others that have been affected by the horrible disease of addiction.
Right before my son John passed away, he asked me to watch the Chris Herren movie “Unguarded.” I watched “Unguarded” and it made such a huge impact on me that I knew I had to run for the Herren project.
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This year is the first year I am emotionally ready to run in memory of my son and others affected by this horrible disease. Let’s spread awareness and stop the stigma.
Editor’s note: This entry may have been lightly edited for clarity or grammar.
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