I have some exciting news to share: this year Team MR8 will be hosting a special tribute team to honor 10 years of running for Martin. When I ran my first Boston Marathon in 2014 I had no idea I would stick with it this long. Since then, I have traveled across the globe to run, met some amazing people who are using running as a tool for social change, and forged some of my closest friendships.
What makes the 2023 Boston Marathon special is that Martin would be 18 so he could run. If you watch this short video, you’ll learn about the promise I had made to him when he was in my second grade class. This year, I will also be joined by several of my former students who will be running for Martin, and that is something I am incredibly excited about.
One of my responsibilities of being on this team is fundraising. This is always the hardest part for me, and it gets harder each time because so many of you have continued to give year after year. I wasn’t planning on asking again, but when this opportunity arose, I couldn’t say no. I had to keep my promise to Martin to run with him when he turned 18. I know that there are a lot of great causes for you to support, but I am asking if you would consider making a donation towards my fundraising efforts. My goal is to raise $5000 by April 17,2023 , and with your help, I know I can reach that goal. Please visit my fundraising website for more information. (If you are able to donate other things (items to raffle, giftcards, services, etc) please let me know as well – I am always trying to get creative with fundraisers!). All funds that are raised will go directly to the Martin Richard Foundation. The Martin Richard Foundation is a non-profit corporation formed by Martin’s parents that honors Martin’s message of peace by investing in education, athletics, and community. It is through the Foundation’s work that we are able to carry out Martin’s message of “No more hurting people. Peace.”
I wanted to take a moment to say thank you to each of you. Whether you’ve been with me since the start of my teaching career, or you’ve entered my story more recently, please know that your love, caring and kindness are truly meaningful to me and I am so grateful to have an amazing crew in my corner. Thanks for helping me continue to pursue my goals and for making sure I honor Martin’s message of love and peace. I can’t thank you enough.
Mooventures 