Samantha Richards is running Boston in honor of her grandmother
"I am honored to run the Boston Marathon in light of her and for what she’s lost in her life due to losing her sight."
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: Samantha Richards
Age: 24
From: Pembroke
I was chosen by the charity “Team With A Vision” to run the 126th Boston Marathon! This charity team that I am fundraising for works with the Massachusetts Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired, which does great work for a cause that’s very close to my heart.
My grandmother, Marilyn, lost her eyesight due to macular degeneration. As I grew up in my early adolescent years, I watched her slowly lose her independence to do the daily tasks she used to do with ease. She was a library assistant for many years but she wasn’t able to enjoy her love for reading books. She lost her ability to take herself and a friend on a Sunday drive for coffee. She is still living today and coping with not being able to live independently.
She has lost her sense of sight, but also independence and dignity. This charity helps provide resources for people like her. I am honored to run the Boston Marathon in light of her and for what she’s lost in her life due to losing her sight. Also, to raise funds and research for anyone who is living with impaired or no eyesight.
Editor’s note: This entry may have been lightly edited for clarity or grammar.
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