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Anna Ribas is running to support childhood cancer research, care programs
"As long as she needs me, I will continue on this marathon fundraising journey for her."
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: Anna Ribas
Age: 29
From: Boston
Over a decade ago, I began my fundraising for Mass General Hospital to support my best friend’s mom who was undergoing years of cancer treatments under their care. I ran and walked 5Ks then decided to kick things up a notch and run the Boston Marathon in her honor. For the last three years, I have partaken in the Patient Partner Program at Mass General, matched with the same resilient girl who has become an extension of my family. I made a commitment to myself that as long as she needs me, I will continue on this marathon fundraising journey for her. I envy her outlook on life and strive to make a difference in her world and others.
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A year and a half ago, just as another marathon training cycle began, I lost my uncle to brain cancer. As the grief set in, running and fundraising became an outlet for me and I doubled my fundraising. I run for every family member and loved one who has been impacted by cancer and those who cannot. I run for the best doctors and team in the best city I am lucky to call home.
The funds raised by our team go directly to MGH to support clinical and laboratory research in childhood cancer, as well as supportive care programs like art and music therapy, parent and sibling support groups, and child life specialists who help patients cope with illness and treatment I have had the blessing of seeing first hand.
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Editor’s note: This entry may have been lightly edited for clarity or grammar.
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