“Running 26.2 miles is never easy, and this year is proving especially tough physically. But I’m committed to raising crucial funds and building awareness for the milk bank. Driving me forward are thoughts of the babies and families who’ve faced unimaginable challenges—babies like Mylah, MJ, and Demitri, who is now five! As I run, I think of these families. I remind myself that while this race is hard for me, I chose this. These families didn’t have a choice. My struggle ends after a day, but their battles often last much longer. I hope my run inspires others to challenge themselves and maybe even surprise themselves by doing what may seem impossible at first glance.” – Maureen C., marathon runner and hero to many
Molehills, mountains, and marathons – embracing our challenges . . .
Here’s something we can all agree on – running 26.2 miles is hard. So why do it? Why subject ourselves to the mental and physical strain of pushing past our comfort zone, past our limits? Perhaps because challenges like this teach us the most about who we really are. They show us what we are capable of and give us the opportunity to carry this self-knowledge into our everyday lives. They help us surmount the daily molehills because, hey, we’ve already conquered the mountain.
You know what else is hard? Parenting. And unlike a marathon, it doesn’t have a finish line we can push toward at the end of one immensely challenging day. Nor does it have a crowd of raucous supporters cheering for us along the way. The end isn’t clear, and the reward isn’t tangible.
But like a marathon, parenting teaches us a great deal about who we are, who we want to be, and how to keep going when it feels like we’re running on empty. Through the miles that feel like flying and the ones that make us want to quit, we learn to press on.
The power of perseverance . . .
Perhaps that’s why our runner Maureen and our Boston Marathon Team Preemie (shoutout to Nicki, Dimitri, and co.) mean so much to us. Resilience, determination, and hope personified, Maureen isn’t just running a marathon – she never has “just” run a marathon. Instead, Maureen is running on behalf of the babies who need it most, the tiny warriors who rely on the vital resources provided by Mothers’ Milk Bank Northeast to survive and thrive.
For Maureen, every mile is a step toward helping the tiniest among us live a healthier, happier, life. And that’s why she has amassed a dedicated group of supporters who continue to invest in the babies who drive her toward that finish line. Last year, these supporters raised $10,000 for the tiny humans that inspire Maureen’s 26.2 miles. As Maureen prepares to tackle the Boston Marathon once again, will YOU demonstrate your belief in courage, community, and conquering mountains?
Join Maureen in the race for life. Donate today and help us conquer this mountain together.
Psst! You’re invited . . .
Local? Want a chance to support Team Preemie while enjoying a delicious meal and getting to know the amazing staff, volunteers, and families of Mothers’ Milk Bank Northeast?
Join us at The Biltmore Bar and Grille in Newton on March 24 (5:30 – 8:00 PM) to sip, savor, and make a difference for babies in need. A beloved Newton landmark and Prohibition-era speakeasy, The Biltmore is generously donating 10% of your food bill to support Maureen’s race to raise vital funds for the milk bank. So whether you’re enjoying a quick bite with family (kiddos welcome) or friends, you’ll be part of one very special evening. RSVP today.
