I'm running because For as long as I could remember, I wanted to live in Boston. I remember, clear as day, being in the North End cradling a cannoli in one hand and holding my mom's hand in the other. I thought, "Yep. I'll live here one day." The years passed, and my desire to be here never faded. Then, the bombings happened. I wouldn't let fear break my promise to that little girl that wanted so badly to live out her dream. I had also, coincidentally, just registered for my first marathon to be completed in January 2014. Running and Boston came into my life at the same time, and I cannot help but think it was meant to be that way. This city and this hobby have been the center of my world and have made me appreciate the beauty of the sport, of Boston, and of human capability and resilience. I run for Boston because it keeps me strong. I am Boston Strong because I want to help keep others strong.