Why I’m Running: ‘I hope that my story can give hope to others’

Chris Herbs is raising funds for Brigham & Women’s as a member of the Stepping Strong Marathon Team.

March 19, 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. If you’re running the marathon, you can share your story here.

Name: Chris Herbs
Age: 30
From: Somerville

Running has been a major part of my life since high school. On top of continuing to train and race all of these years, I have built a career as a physical therapist and performance coach specializing in working with runners.

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However, two years ago in the summer of 2021, I suffered a severe autoimmune attack and was incapacitated to the point of barely being able to walk. I came to terms with the idea of having to completely change my life due to these limitations.

However, after months of working with my medical team, I was diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis, and responded very well to treatment.

So well, in fact, that I was able to use a previous Boston qualifying time to complete the 2022 Boston Marathon as my first race back after diagnosis, while raising money for the rheumatology fund at Brigham and Women’s.

I have stayed largely in remission since late 2021, and have been able to get my life back. Last year, I was able to re-qualify for the privilege of running the 2024 Boston Marathon. Once again, I will be raising money for the rheumatology fund at Brigham & Women’s as a member of the Stepping Strong Marathon Team.

I hope that my story can give hope to others suffering from similar medical challenges.

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