Brigit Hourigan is running Boston in her father’s honor

"Running makes me feel strong and powerful, two things that I hadn't felt in a long time after losing my dad."

April 12, 2024

1 minute to read

In our “Why I’m Running” series, Boston Marathon runners share what’s inspiring them to make the 26.2-mile trek from Hopkinton to Boston.

Name: Brigit Hourigan
Age: 26
From: Millis

I am running this year’s Boston Marathon with Team Samaritans in honor of my Dad who I lost to suicide 3 years ago.

Samaritans mission is to spread awareness about mental health, suicide, and suicide prevention.

This is a cause that sits extremely close to my heart after losing my dad, which is why I am running to raise awareness about suicide prevention.

Running the Boston Marathon has been a dream of mine since I was a young girl and running with Team Samaritans makes it even more special.

During the unsettling times, running has been the sole activity that allowed my mind to focus on positivity, preventing it from being overwhelmed by the constant influx of emotions.

I am able to shut out the negativity and only focus on putting one foot in front of the other. I listen to the songs my dad adored, songs that invoke countless cherished memories of him dancing and vibing to their tunes.

Running makes me feel strong and powerful, two things that I hadn’t felt in a long time after losing my dad.

Now being able to accomplish running the Boston Marathon in his honor is something that is so special to me.

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