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He’s running Boston to honor his sister and support MGH
"The doctors, nurses, and staff cared for Kerry with extraordinary dedication, but they also cared for us."
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: Riley Thoubboron
Age: 32
City: Bend, Ore.
Two years ago, my sister, Kerry Thoubboron, passed away from melanoma at just 31 years old. Her diagnosis at the end of 2022 altered my family’s lives in an instant, and nothing could have prepared us for how quickly everything unfolded. During her treatment and in her final days, Mass General became more than a hospital to us — it became a source of strength, compassion, and humanity during the most devastating chapter our family has ever faced.
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The doctors, nurses, and staff cared for Kerry with extraordinary dedication, but they also cared for us. They made sure we felt seen, supported, and never alone. In moments of unbearable grief, their empathy and kindness mattered more than words can capture. They reminded us that even in loss, there is love and light.
Kerry attended Boston University and lived in the city for 13 years. Marathon Monday was hands down one of her favorite days of the year. She loved the energy, the community, and the way the city came alive. Though she may never have said it out loud, I know she dreamed of running Boston someday. Now, running in her memory — and for the hospital that cared for her — feels like a powerful way to carry that dream forward.
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I’m running for Mass General to give back to the place that gave so much to us. No family should have to endure the pain of losing someone so young, but for those who do, I want to help ensure they receive the same compassion and care that we did.
When I cross the finish line on April 20, 2026, I’ll be running for Kerry, for my family, for everyone whose life was impacted by my sister, and for every family that’s been touched by the kindness of Mass General.
Editor’s note: This entry may have been lightly edited for clarity or grammar.
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