Ever since joining the high school cross-country team with my close friend Jimmy Paschal, we wanted to run the Boston marathon together. With our big egos we used to daydream of not only qualifying but placing—and would tease each other over who would win as we finished each race neck-and-neck.

But in 2018 Jimmy passed away suddenly, leaving a huge hole in the Canton community and beyond. We never got the chance to race Boston together. This past year I took my dream job as an emergency medicine physician at Tufts and had the opportunity to join their charity racing team. I knew that this was my chance to run with Jimmy.

I can’t think of a better way to honor my dear friend by running in his name and raising money for a great cause. Jimmy was a true friend and people gravitated to him with his big jokes and a smile for everyone. He loved being part of a community and would do anything to help a friend, neighbor, or fellow Boston sports fan. Jimmy would be proud to raise money in support of the Tufts team and the families we serve. I know when I cross that finish line on April 17th, Jimmy will be right by side cheering me on.