May 2, 2003

MGHers run from the heart

Braving warm temperatures, treacherous potholes and the famously feared Heartbreak Hill, MGHers were among a sea of thousands of runners who laced up their sneakers and took their place at the starting line of what has become the epitome of physical endurance — the Boston Marathon. Although most athletes run the historic route for the pure sport of it, for these MGHers, who run on behalf of others who cannot, the spirit of the race comes from the heart.

A cheering crowd gathered along the marathon route to provide smiles, encouragement and support for MGHers running the race. Several MGH teams labored the famed marathon route, including "Fighting Kids' Cancer ... One Step at a Time." The team — which is made up of physicians, nurses, staff, family and members of the community — set a goal of raising $500,000 this year to benefit pediatric cancer research programs at MassGeneral Hospital for Children. Many of the runners were paired with pediatric cancer patients, who helped to inspire them to endure the strenuous 26.2 miles. The team was started in 1998 by Howard Weinstein, MD, chief of MGH Hematology/Oncology for MassGeneral Hospital for Children, after one of his patients died from incurable sarcoma.

Taking their place for the first time in this year's race was "Team Durant." The team was made up of 19 men and women — 11 from the MGH — who ran on behalf of the Thomas Durant, MD, Refugee Fellowship Program."The Durant Fellowship honors and celebrates the life and legacy of an extraordinary humanitarian by supporting an MGH doctor or nurse to work in refugee camps around the world," says Larry Ronan, MD, of Internal Medicine Associates and captain of Team Durant. "We fielded an intrepid, dedicated team of runners — all of whom finished the race — who were much buoyed by the generous support of our donors." In their first year, Team Durant raised more than $49,000, which far exceeded their projected goal.

In addition, a team of MGHers ran the marathon on behalf of the MGH Cystic Fibrosis (CF) Center. The team's projected goal is $20,000, and they will receive a matching donation from an anonymous donor. The funds will go directly to the MGH
CF Center to support staff positions to provide the necessary care that CF patients require.