Why I’m Running: Rose Gallagher is running Boston to honor her grandmother
"She is so special to me and this experience has allowed me to spread the love that she so gracefully gives away."
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 on April 16, 2018. Are you running Boston? Here’s how to share your story on Boston.com.Name:
Rose Gallagher
Age: 26
From: Boston
Bib #: 27268
I vividly remember saying goodbye to my grandmother after a visit years ago. While giving her a hug I noticed tears in her eyes. I didn’t understand why, but now know it was because this was the beginning of when she could no longer trust her mind as her own, altering goodbyes forever. Changes happened slowly, but happened. She stopped cooking. She was no longer spotted outside gardening. Her name was now signed on cards in my grandfather’s handwriting. Her voice quieted at gatherings. She stopped calling me by my first name.
Incredibly, after years of disease progression, she has still remembered to say “don’t forget I love you.” It’s as if this is what she chose to hang on to. Through the depths of this neurological disorder, her love has remained as strong and unquestionable as ever.
As a nurse, I specialize in memory disorders and work with patients and their families who walk this difficult journey. It is a humbling experience to be invited into the intimate moments of someone’s life, and I am blown away daily by the strength and love I witness in my patients and their loved ones.
There are many stages of this disease, some more difficult than others. My family was going through an especially difficult one when the opportunity to be apart of this incredible team was presented to me. Running has always been an outlet for me, and I felt it was a healthy way to channel the sadness that comes along with Alzheimer’s, and a way to honor my wonderful grandmother. She is so special to me and this experience has allowed me to spread the love that she so gracefully gives away.
To my nan; “don’t forget I love you” XO, Rose
Check out our entire “Why I’m Running” series.
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Editor’s note: Entries may have been lightly edited for clarity or grammar.
