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She’s running the Boston Marathon for suicide prevention after the loss of 2 friends
"My goal is to help break the silence around mental health, and to support the work that Samaritans does every day."
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: Kerrie Jacoby
Age: 34
From: Wellesley, Mass.
I’m running the 2026 Boston Marathon in honor of two dear friends who we lost far too soon.
When I was a senior in high school, my very close friend, Tyler, died by suicide. His passing was devastating to our entire community. It left us reeling, filled with grief, confusion, and an overwhelming sense of helplessness and unanswered questions.
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Tyler had a contagious personality, a kindness that touched anyone he met, and the ability to light up a room. He would do anything for you and drop whatever he was doing just to listen to you. He was wise beyond his years and made every connection he had with you a meaningful one.
Losing someone so full of life and compassion made it painfully clear just how complex and hidden mental health struggles can be.
That awareness only deepened in 2016, when I lost another friend, Michelle, to suicide. I started to become acutely aware of how little we talk about mental health, and I was left with the desire to want to raise awareness and support efforts that prevent others from experiencing the same kind of loss.
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For me, this marathon isn’t just about crossing the finish line; it’s about honoring Tyler and Michelle and the strength it takes to keep going, especially when life feels overwhelming.
My goal is to help break the silence around mental health and to support the work that Samaritans does every day.
April is the month we lost Tyler, so it feels especially meaningful that I’ll be running the marathon during that time of year. My hope is that by running and raising awareness for Samaritans, I can be part of changing the narrative so that even one person feels a little more seen, a little more supported, and a little less alone.
Editor’s note: This entry may have been lightly edited for clarity or grammar.
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