Readers Say

Two Boston residents are running to help ‘fight this terrible disease’

Brooke Deschenes and Elizabeth Murphy are running the Boston Marathon to support the ALS Association Mass. chapter.

Brooke Deschenes (left) and Elizabeth Murphy (right)

March 15, 2022

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.

Kathryn Guarino is running to fight homelessness in Boston

Name: Brooke Deschenes and Elizabeth Murphy
Ages: 27
From: Boston

We are taking part in the 126th Boston Marathon to raise money for the ALS Association Massachusetts Chapter. They continue to do amazing work for a cause that’s very close to our hearts.

Cheryl Alderman was a ray of sunshine to everyone she crossed paths with and our great friend Kara Alderman’s beloved mother. On November 20th, 2014, Cheryl’s battle against ALS ended, but her beautiful smile and spirit continue to live on through her family and friends.

This year, we hope to continue celebrating and remembering Cheryl by raising money for the ALS Association Massachusetts Chapter. They played an instrumental role in Cheryl and her family’s fight against ALS. All funds raised through this fundraiser will go directly to helping relieve patients and their families battling ALS.

In August of 2014, at Sutton Elementary School, with the help of our community and local businesses we hosted an Ultimate Ice Bucket Challenge for Cheryl. The community, family, friends, and most importantly Cheryl came to dump ice over their heads and raise money for one amazing person. Since 2015, we have participated in the Walk to Defeat ALS in Worcester, alongside Cheryl’s friends and incredibly strong family.

We are truly honored to be running the Boston Marathon for Cheryl, the Alderman family, and the ALS Association Massachusetts Chapter. To be a small part of helping fight this terrible disease has been our mission over the years. We appreciate everyone’s help in getting us closer to reaching our goal.

This one’s for you, Cheryl!

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