Why I’m Running: Tim O’Brien is running Boston for The Children’s Room after losing his wife to suicide
"The Children’s Room has been there every step of the way as my kids and I rebuild and reshape our lives."
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:
Tim O’Brien
Age: 46
From: Newton
Bib #: 26975
I’m running to give something back to an organization which has given so much to me and my family. The first part of my story is that I lost my wife Keri to suicide in November 2015. If my run can do something to lessen the stigma surrounding mental health, that’s great. The second part of my story is about The Children’s Room, a small nonprofit located in Arlington. The Children’s Room has been there every step of the way as my kids and I rebuild and reshape our lives. The communities and programs there have been enormously helpful to us, and I’m proud to “pay it forward” by raising funds for this wonderful organization. This will be my second time raising funds for The Children’s Room, my sixth time running Boston, and my 21st marathon overall.
As for the marathon itself, Boston is a marathon unlike any other, with crowd support in a league of its own. The spectators are so supportive and knowledgeable, and they go above and beyond for everyone from the speedsters at the front to the back-of-the-pack runners. I’ve seen spectators handing out everything from water and Gatorade, to gummy bears and bananas, to ice pops and paper towels on a hot day, to beer and soda in the final miles. From the early miles in Hopkinton, to the Wellesley scream tunnel, to the Newton hills, and finally the huge crowds in the final miles, the support is amazing. It’s a mutual love-fest between the runners and the crowds.
I’m proud to be raising funds for The Children’s Room and excited to take part in another Boston Marathon.
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.
