When resident Karen Feeney had created a “Fun by 40†list a few years ago, she amplified her love of running and began her journey on the half-marathon circuit. Having only run 5K’s for physical and mental health, Feeney never imagined she’d be able to run the 13.1 mile race, yet she surpassed that goal and found herself running her first Boston Marathon in 2017.
For Feeney, a Boston girl at heart, there was no other marathon that she wanted to run, so she took a chance and applied for a spot to run on behalf of Mass Eye and Ear, after she experienced their exceptional care following a surgery.
“I am not a fast runner so qualifying was not an option,†said Feeney. “I was so surprised to receive a call telling me that I had a spot on the team. I was beyond excited and then nervous about facing 26.2 miles.â€
This year, Feeney will run the Boston Marathon a fourth time, however, this time she will be running on “Tedy’s Team,†led by TedyBruschi, former New England Patriot dedicated to raising money for stroke awareness and heart disease. This will be her third time running on the team that is close to her heart.
“This team caught my attention because during 2016 my father had 3 strokes. This had an impact on me and my family. We realized that my father was lucky that he did not suffer any lasting effects from his strokes. I wanted to give back and be part of a team that could help others that weren’t so fortunate.â€
Feeney said that “Tedy’s Team†has become a family to her and she is inspired by her teammates and the opportunity to give back and volunteer at a variety of events to raise awareness. While she admits that each year of the Marathon brings new excitement and unpredictability, there are two things that she is looking forward to on the big day.
“Seeing my family at mile 19 giving me the boost that is needed to finish, and the second is the feeling of turning on to Boylston Street and seeing that finish line. I know my parents are outside of the Lenox Hotel and there is only a few more feet before all the training fully pays off and I cross that finish line. Emotions run wild and there is a feeling of accomplishment that can’t fully be put into words. There is pride in finishing any marathon but there is something special about finishing the BOSTON MARATHON.â€
To support Karen’s journey, please donate at: