I am beyond honored to be running my second World Major Marathon, and hometown race, the Boston Marathon for the Jeff Coombs Foundation! The race takes place just 6 days after my 35th birthday, and I will be running during a very special year - the 50th anniversary of women being allowed to register and run the Marathon. What better year to run, and for what better cause. 

I have known Jeff's wife, Christie, for many years, and have supported the foundation through volunteering at various events, fundraising, and running their annual 5K. When I look back on my path to becoming a runner, the course was laid over the last two decades ago - due to the events of 9/11, the wars that followed, the organizations founded, the career it all led to, and the people I have met. I feel deeply moved to commit my Boston Marathon in memory of Jeff, and to support a foundation that provides great support to the community I grew up in.

The Jeff Coombs Foundation assists Massachusetts families who are in financial need because of a death, illness or other situation that challenges the family budget. It helps fund enrichment programs in the Abington Schools, awards scholarships to graduating college-bound seniors and students in private high schools, assists patients and families during their difficult treatments and hospital/hospice stays, and receives referrals from military organizations seeking help for its families in need.