Meghan Deighan is running Boston for a beloved patient
"With Nick as my guardian angel, I know I can complete anything I set my mind to, even running 26.2 miles."
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 story here.
Name: Meghan Deighan
Age: 30
From: South Boston
I have the honor of running this year’s Boston Marathon for the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in memory of Nicholas Gaspar, the kindest, funniest, bravest, and wisest, 16-year-old I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. I am a pediatric oncology nurse and spent the first four years of my career at Boston Children’s Hospital on the Neuro-Oncology floor. I currently work in the Jimmy Fund Clinic at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.
At only 14 years old, Nick was diagnosed with a NGGCT, a non-germinomatous germ cell tumor, an extremely rare intracranial tumor that accounts for less than three percent of all brain tumors. I had the pleasure of caring for Nick and his family on multiple occasions in which every single day, he demonstrated bravery and grace. Wise beyond his years, he taught me what strength is all about.
Between brain surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, endless hospitalizations, and all the grueling side effects that come along with cancer, not once did I ever hear a complaint leave his mouth, even until the very end. I will spend the rest of my days reminded of the courage and strength he possessed.
To quote Nick and something I think we all need a reminder of: “Sometimes life sucks, but you only have one, so you can’t stop living.” I can still remember the pain and agony I felt after losing Nick. I decided that the best way to turn that pain into peace would be to set my mind to accomplishing something great. With Nick as my guardian angel, I know I can complete anything I set my mind to, even running 26.2 miles.
Editor’s note: This entry may have been lightly edited for clarity or grammar.
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