All my life I have wanted to run in the Boston Marathon, and to help children overseas. This year I get to fulfill both of these dreams. In a few weeks, along with my fellow AKF Run Team members, I will be in Boston realizing my dream of running in the Boston Marathon. How did I get here?
A few months ago I learned that the Aga Khan Foundation, one of the Boston Marathon’s charity partners, was taking applications for runners. I didn’t know the Foundation then but I have recently learned a lot about how much I share its values and appreciate its good work in Asia and Africa. I applied to run and raise funds for the Foundation’s programs and was thrilled to be accepted.
I grew up 30 minutes south of Boston, the oldest of three kids, and have always been an athlete. I work as a Registered Nurse in an emergency room in Plymouth, Massachusetts. My work day is intense and marked off in 12-hour shifts, often going until 3 a.m. I went into nursing inspired by my mother’s dream of a nursing career, and I like that the work fosters the traits of loving care that I associate with her.
After work, though, I love running. I have run two half-marathons before but never a marathon. Training for this marathon has inspired me. My family thinks I’m crazy to take on such a grueling schedule, but they support me 100 percent.
Why the Aga Khan Foundation?
At work in the emergency room there’s very little time for conversation. I tell my coworkers that Aga Khan Foundation invests in improving health care and education for people – especially women and children – in Asia and Africa. They get it. What also appeals to me is the Foundation’s long-term commitment to solutions. People in poverty need that kind of dedicated support to solve problems and improve their lives.
The more I learned about the Aga Khan Foundation, I found its values matched the values I learned early in life: the importance of showing compassion towards others, and helping communities build better futures. I believe strongly in its work to educate girls and prepare them to succeed in life. The Foundation works with communities regardless of their religion, race, ethnicity or gender. In health, education and livelihood skills, it changes the trajectory of people’s lives.
It means a lot to me to run with the AKF Run Team next month. I admit, training this winter has been tough. So much snow here in New England! When it’s been too dangerous to run outside, I’ve had to do a lot of gym training.
At Mile 23, what will keep me going will be the crowd and the cause I’m running for.
After the race? Celebration and lots of water. I’ll be wearing my medal and jacket all day with no shame.
Together We’re Stronger
I have asked for support in my fundraising and have been humbled by the response of my friends and family. I’m over a third way toward my ambitious fundraising goal of $5,000. But I have a long way to go!
With my teammates, I know that besides realizing a personal dream to be in the Boston Marathon, our running this race will help people far away lift themselves out of poverty.
By Danielle Healy, AKF Run Team member