Bridget Parker is running Boston for the staff that supported her through cancer
"I couldn't let go of the chance to support the organization who saved my life and the choice was clear."
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: Bridget Parker
Age: 40
From: Winchester
On Marathon Monday 2021, I finished my last round of chemotherapy at Dana-Farber. This year I am running for Dana-Farber, a cause that is so close to my heart.
A few days after Christmas 2020, I was admitted to the ER for inflammation of my face, neck, and arm. After an ultrasound and CAT scan, doctors found a large mass in my chest and subsequently diagnosed me with an aggressive form of non-Hodgkins large B-cell lymphoma. I was lucky that while my lymphoma grew quickly and had spread throughout my body, it was also very responsive to treatment. Upon diagnosis, I was immediately transferred to Dana-Farber where I spent the next ten days and received the first of my six, five-day-long chemo treatments.
From the second I was wheeled in the doors of Dana-Farber — alone and terrified — I have been so incredibly fortunate to receive such tremendous care. I have been treated by the very best doctors and nurses in this field who not only took wonderful care of me but also never let me feel alone, despite COVID restrictions that prevented me from having anyone with me throughout my treatment.
As I have been training over the past several months, I’m getting my first “alone” time again since my long treatment days. It has given me a chance to reflect and feel immense gratitude for the chance to be a part of this and put a pin in a long and, at times, scary year.
Running has always been a special part of my life and this will be my sixth marathon. When the opportunity arose I almost talked myself out of it. With a full-time teaching job and two little kids, I couldn’t imagine fitting it all in but I couldn’t let go of the chance to support the organization who saved my life and the choice was clear.
One year ago, my friends and family threw a marathon finish line party in my backyard, celebrating the major milestone of completing six rounds and 30-plus days of chemo. This year, I hope to have your support as I look ahead and run 26.2 miles.
Editor’s note: This entry may have been lightly edited for clarity or grammar.
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