William St. Jean is running for children with congenital heart defects

"I decided if Sam made it to his second birthday, April 15, 2024, we would be back in Boston to conquer the marathon together."

April 10, 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: William St. Jean
Age: 44
From: Auburn, N.H.

I am running for my hero, my son, Sam. Sam had his first open heart surgery at three days old on Patriots Day 2022. While the race was run, Sam underwent a seven hour open heart surgery to save his life. That night, standing crib side, with Sam on a ventilator, his chest still open from surgery, I decided if Sam made it to his second birthday, April 15, 2024, we would be back in Boston to conquer the marathon together.

Brody Langille is running Boston for his son and patient partner

Sam had his second open heart surgery at four and half months old. His third is planned for this fall. While preparing for his next heart surgery, Sam was found to have a Wilms tumor, a pediatric renal cancer. Sam has overcome all this with a smile on his face, and a glimmer in his eye. I am running to say thank you to the absolutely AMAZING team at Boston Children’s Hospital. To thank the hundreds of doctors, nurses, and staff that literally saved Sam’s life.

We felt like Sam had an army of angels protecting him every step of the way. They have given us so much hope and joy. I am running for Sam. He has already inspired and taught me so much. I only hope to do the same for him. Finally, I am running for all the children with congenital heart defects that have not had the same opportunities as Sam. Please join me in supporting Boston Children’s Hospital’s mission; until every child is well.

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