Physician's Mission to Deliver the Best Care to Patients

On April 16, 2018, 102 runners will participate in the 122nd Boston Marathon on behalf of MassGeneral Hospital for Children (MGfC). These individuals - including Lindsay Carter, MD, pediatric hospitalist, PCE Warren House director, and inpatient director for Pediatric Quality and Safety - support clinical and lab research, Brain Tumor and Long-term survivor programs, child life programs and mental health services that enhance the quality of life for the hospital’s youngest cancer patients. This year marks the 21st anniversary of John Hancock’s partnership with the Mass General Marathon Program, providing Mass General with 100 bib numbers for the race, allowing the hospital to raise more than $13 million.

Why did you choose to run the marathon for Mass General for Children? 
I have worked at MGfC for over ten years.  This is my home away from home.  Daily, I am inspired by the incredible children and families for whom I care and by the amazing staff with whom I work.  The work of the Pediatric Cancer Center is especially vital to our kids.  I am more motivated than ever to help make it possible for us to continue our mission of delivering the very best care to those who need it most. 

What kind of experience do you have as a runner? 
This will be my 7^th marathon (and my 5^th Boston) so hopefully that will help on race day!

 

What inspires you as a runner? 
This year, I am most inspired by my patient partner Amelia and her incredible mother Amy.  They are a fierce duo who have demonstrated a strength and resilience of which I can only dream.  When I am tired on a long run, I imagine Amelia smiling even at her most sick moments and it’s all I need to keep going.  It’s amazing the life lessons you can learn from a wonderful three-year-old little girl. 

What has been your most memorable moment preparing for the marathon? 

Training with Dr. Howard Weinstein, the chief of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology.  It’s like running with a living legend.  It is an honor and privilege to run side by side with a man who has dedicated his life to eradicating cancer and it’s a great motivation to keep running!

What have you learned about your patient partner and what makes him special? 
Amelia is a really special little girl.  It’s hard to put into words.  She is vibrant, warm, intelligent, funny, and just a lovely kid to be around.  She loves Peppa Pig, Daniel Tiger, and princesses and she adores being outside.  I would have thought it would be hard for her to be in the hospital so much, but, instead, she has decided she wants to be a doctor!  In fact, she likes to be called “Dr. Chick.” She has taken every step in stride and it is a testament to both her inner strength and the incredible strength of her mom, Amy.  I am in awe of them both.

What are you most looking forward to about marathon day? 

Mile 20.  Nothing beats Mile 20.  The kids, the parents, the staff.  And Amelia.  I can’t wait to give her a hug!

This story is part of a series that MGH will publish in advance of the 2018 Boston Marathon featuring the Pediatric Oncology and Emergency Response Teams. In addition, individuals will run for the Miles for Mass General Program, which raises funds for hospital programs that are close to their hearts – including Botswana Oncology Global Outreach, Caring for a Cure, Cystic Fibrosis, Down Syndrome and the Lurie Center for Autism.