MY WHY

Why do I run?

Why am I training for the next 4 months to run 26.2 miles?

Thankfully, running entered my life two years ago.

My running practice is a major tool in my healing journey, a partner to mindfulness practice. Together they are helping me to keep my head above and navigate the waves of grief and trauma. Why do I run?

I am grateful for my running practice. It is helping me to show up and love myself, so I can show up more fully for others.

Last year, I decided to run my first marathon, the Boston Marathon, in honor of my late brother Joseph, who was a dedicated member of the Boston Bulldogs Running Club until his death on June 17, 2021.

When he found the Boston Bulldogs Running Club in 2019, he found himself, he saw his light shine through the cracks. While only forty-four years young, my brother had been battling with addiction, for more than half of his life.

This will be my second Boston. I am running for my brother, for myself, for The Boston Bulldogs Running Club, and in memory of the people, we have lost to addiction and their friends and family.

The Boston Bulldogs Running Club is so much more than a running club. They are a group of kind-hearted warriors providing a safe community for all who are adversely affected by addiction and mental illness. 

Consider giving a gift of any amount, 100% of the funds raised through this campaign goes directly to the Boston Bulldogs! 


Thanks for reading, and thanks for giving!

with love and gratitude,
Jo Ann

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Let’s heal together, spread awareness, and remove the stigma of mental illness, addiction, and overdose deaths with the community power of remembrance and storytelling.