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This stroke survivor is running Boston for Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital
"Spaulding wrapped their arms around me and gave me the strength to rebuild my life. I can never truly repay what they’ve given me, but I can do something to give back."
In our “Why I’m Running” series, Boston Marathon athletes share what’s inspiring them to make the 26.2-mile trek from Hopkinton to Boston. Looking for more race day content? Sign up for Boston.com’s pop-up Boston Marathon newsletter.
Name: Tim Rafferty
Age: 43
City: Boston
On October 25, 2019, I walked into the gym like I did most days, having no idea my life was about to change forever. Within minutes, I suffered a hemorrhagic stroke that left the entire left side of my body paralyzed. When I arrived at the hospital, the prognosis was grim. “It seems unlikely you’ll ever walk again,” the first doctor said. Though no one else spoke, the heartbreak in the room was unmistakable as tears streamed down my face.
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After a stay at the Brigham, my prayers were answered when I was admitted to one of the best rehabilitation centers in the world, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital.
During my first evaluation, we talked about my therapy goals. At that time, I was walking cautiously and slowly with a cane. I told my PT how much I loved being active before my stroke, running, snowboarding, biking, weight training and how I dreamed of returning to that lifestyle. He smiled and said, “No problem, Tim. Those seem reasonable to me.” I wanted to believe him, but I couldn’t quite bring myself to. Yet under his direction, within a year, I accomplished every single goal. In fact, I went a step further and ran the Boston Marathon just two years post stroke.
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After finishing that first marathon in 2021, I swore I’d never do it again. I practically crawled across the finish line! But five years later, I’ve had a change of heart and am ready to take on the challenge once more. When I think back on my time at Spaulding, what stands out most are the people: their compassion, encouragement, and unwavering belief in me. Spaulding wrapped their arms around me and gave me the strength to rebuild my life. I can never truly repay what they’ve given me, but I can do something to give back.
Editor’s note: This entry may have been lightly edited for clarity or grammar.
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