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James Whelan is running Boston to fight child cancer

"By running this marathon, I want to show these children that they are not alone."

James Whelan is donating $5 of his own money for every $50 he raises for child cancer research.

March 7, 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.

Name: James Whelan
Age: 23
From: Lynnfield

With a loaded field, the Boston Marathon makes its return to Patriots’ Day

This year, I have the honor to be running the Boston Marathon with Massachusetts General Hospital and representing their Fighting Kids’ Cancer, One Step at a Time team. No child should have to go through this terrible disease. Please help make a lasting impact on children affected by different cancers.

Personally, I have had multiple family members affected by cancer and some who have unfortunately passed away. Now, I have a brother-in-law who is going through chemotherapy for a brain tumor.

By running this marathon, I want to show these children that they are not alone and that they will always have people out there looking out for them and hoping for their recovery. Running a marathon is nothing compared to what these children have to go through.

When it comes to donations, I want to help out these children as much as possible. For every $50 donated, I will donate $5 myself. This generation is very powerful when it comes to spreading the word and doing good for others. So please, help make a difference in these kids’ lives. I appreciate everyone who donates. I think we all can agree, cancer sucks.

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