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For this Everett runner, the Boston Marathon has always been personal
Inspired by memories of the 2013 bombings and the city’s response, Michelle Davidson is running with the Brigham Stepping Strong Foundation to support trauma care.
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: Michelle Davidson
Age: 33
City: Everett
I’m honored to be running the 2026 Boston Marathon and to share why this race has always felt personal.
I grew up believing the Boston Marathon was part of the rhythm of my city. Every April, my family and I walked down our street to Commonwealth Avenue to cheer on runners doing what felt impossible. Marathon Monday wasn’t just an event — it was the best day of the year.
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In 2013, that joy was shattered. I remember the shock and heartbreak of the Marathon bombings, and how a day I loved so deeply became defined by fear and uncertainty. But I also remember the way Boston responded. Strangers ran toward danger, helped the injured, and refused to let the city’s spirit be broken.
As the news unfolded, I learned the tragedy had reached closer to home than I could have imagined. A family connected to my school and community had been directly impacted. What once felt distant suddenly became deeply personal.
More than a decade later, running the Boston Marathon feels both full-circle and purposeful. I’m running with the Brigham Stepping Strong Foundation to honor the trauma teams whose extraordinary response saved lives and continues to advance trauma care. Their work reflects the very best of what I witnessed that day — skill, compassion, and resilience in the face of the unthinkable.
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Boston taught me what strength looks like. In 2026, I’m running to honor it.
Editor’s note: This entry may have been lightly edited for clarity or grammar.
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