Patrick Sheehan is running Boston for his son Declan
"As we’ve learned through our own experience, many kids with autism and their families face even greater challenges than we do."
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 15, 2019.
Name: Patrick Sheehan
Age: 47
From: Needham, Massachusetts
Bib #: 25750
As a member of Dougie’s Team and fundraiser for the Doug Flutie, Jr. Foundation for Autism, I’ll be running this year’s Boston Marathon for my son Declan, who is affected by autism, as well as other kids like him and their families. To support my run, please donate at the following link: https://www.crowdrise.com/o/en/campaign/flutieboston2019/patricksheehan.Since being diagnosed at age 2, Declan’s condition has presented myriad challenges to him and our family, in virtually every aspect of life. There are some really tough days and nights.My wife Liz and I are fortunate to have Declan placed in a wonderful school for kids with autism and have strong family support, which makes the tough times easier to bear. Declan has an engaging personality, loves people, and has great taste in music and movies. When things are going well, he’s a lot of fun to be around, thanks in large part to all the support we’ve received at school and home.However, as we’ve learned through our own experience, many kids with autism and their families face even greater challenges than we do. The resources available to support them are scarce and continue to be stretched to their limits as the number of children diagnosed with autism rises. Luckily, I was invited to join Dougie’s Team and raise money for the Flutie Foundation this year. The Flutie Foundation provides financial support to schools and organizations that offer services to people affected by autism and directly to families through its special programs. By running the marathon with Dougie’s Team, I hope to help kids like Declan and other families like ours.Check out our entire “Why I’m Running” series.
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Editor’s note: Entry may have been lightly edited for clarity or grammar.
