‘I’ll be carrying my mom’s memory with me each and every step’
Erin Kelley is running for her mom, Margie Kelley.
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. If you’re running the marathon, you can share your #WhyImRunningBoston story here.
Name: Erin Kelley
Age: 30
From: Waltham
I’m running the 2023 Boston Marathon for Dana-Farber in honor and memory of my mom, Margie Kelley. My mom had a passion for helping others and would always give back in any way she could. She was my biggest supporter and I know she’d be so proud to know that I’m not only running a marathon, but running it for a place that was so near and dear to her heart. She dealt with three bouts of cancer, each one coming with its own unique challenges. Dana-Farber’s care, compassion, and treatment were world-class.
I lost my mom on March 27, 2022, so April 2023 will mark just over a year without her. Although, in the end, it wasn’t cancer that took my mom, it was cancer that stole her ability to fight off COVID-19. I am running with the hope that eventually no one will have to hear the words: “You have cancer.”
On April 17, 2023, I’ll be carrying my mom’s memory with me each and every step, mile after mile, from Hopkinton to Copley. Thank you for supporting me in my journey to 26.2 and a world without cancer.
Editor’s note: Entry may have been lightly edited for clarity or grammar.
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